Puri, July 20 (UDN): The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has categorically stated that no paid VIP darshan facility exists at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri and has lodged an FIR against those allegedly circulating misleading advertisements claiming to offer such services.

In a complaint filed with the Singhadwara Police Station, the temple administration said it had come across a fraudulent online advertisement promoting a so-called “MyEO Jagannath Dham Concierge Service”, which falsely claimed to provide paid VIP darshan of Lord Jagannath.

The SJTA clarified that the temple does not permit VIP darshan in exchange for payment and has not authorised any individual, organisation, or private agency to provide such services on its behalf.

Describing the advertisement as false, misleading, and intended to cheat devotees, the administration urged the public not to fall prey to such claims. The complaint was submitted by Hemanta Kumar Padhi, Officer on Special Duty (Security), SJTA, seeking legal action against those responsible for the alleged fraud.

The temple administration has appealed to devotees to rely only on official announcements and authorised communication channels for information related to darshan, rituals, and temple services.

Following the complaint, the Singhadwara Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter. Authorities are expected to identify those behind the misleading advertisement and take appropriate legal action.

The SJTA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests of devotees and ensuring that fraudulent practices exploiting the faith of pilgrims are dealt with strictly.