Puri, Aug. 18 (UDN): A security scare unfolded at the revered Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri after a youth allegedly climbed onto the temple structure and performed puja atop the Anla Bedha on Monday.

 Representational Image

The youth was identified as Mahadev Gopinath Nayak, a resident of Saraipalli in Chhattisgarh’s Mahasamund district.

According to reports, Nayak managed to scale the temple and reach the restricted area at the top of the shrine. He reportedly performed puja there before temple security personnel and police were alerted.

The incident triggered panic among temple authorities and raised questions over security arrangements at the centuries-old shrine. Security personnel and police reportedly faced considerable difficulty while attempting to bring the youth down.

After sustained efforts, the youth was eventually brought down safely and detained for questioning.

Probe Into Security Breach

Following the incident, both police and the temple administration have reportedly initiated inquiries to determine how the youth managed to breach the security arrangements and gain access to the restricted portion of the temple.

Officials are also examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly as it reportedly occurred during the Khasapada ritual, when devotees were not present inside the temple.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over security at the Shree Jagannath Temple, one of Odisha’s most prominent religious landmarks.

Notably, this is reportedly the third such incident in the past year. In 2025, an elderly man from Bhadrak and another person from Uttar Pradesh had also allegedly climbed onto the temple structure.

Authorities are now expected to review security measures to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety and sanctity of the historic shrine.