Non-Hindus’ entry: ‘Shankaracharya should take decision’

The debate over the Supreme Court’s suggestion for allowing in non-Hindus to the Puri Jagannath Temple is getting hotter by the day with prominent persons giving their views on the issue.

“Entry into the Shree Jagannath Temple in violation of Sanatan religion is not acceptable to us,” said the Shankaracharya.

Similarly, the Gajapati said, “Entry of only Hindus into the Jagannath Temple is an age old tradition and that is mentioned in the Shreemandir Record of Rights. Whenever a question arises regarding the implemented rituals, systems and traditions in the temple, the Shankaracharya and other scholars of Mukti Mandap are consulted for their valuable suggestions.”

The servitors’ community should also be asked for their opinion to work on the SC suggestions. The changes should be made keeping the sentiments of billions of devotees of Lord Jagannath in mind, the Gajapati said.

As Sri Mandir was attacked and looted several times by Mughal and Afghanistan militants during early 14th century till 17th century, it was the prime cause behind restriction of non-Hindus from entering into the temple. Although, the situation is different at present, it is necessary to take precautionary measures for security of the shrine in view of the spread of terrorism across India and world, added the Gajapati.

“Will it be appropriate to allow the non-Hindus into the temple when the Centre officially declared it as the ‘high risk’ category temple in India,” he wanted to know.

He argued that Sri Mandir should not be compared with any other Hindu shrines where non-Hindus are allowed for darshan of the deities. As per the scriptures in Sanatan religion, the presiding deities never leave the sanctum sanctorum, rather the representative idols make visit during various festivals and occasions, he said.

In a reaction Puri MLA and Revenue Minister Maheshwar Mohanty said the Ratha Yatra would not be required if non-Hindus are allowed entry to the Shreemandir.

BJP leader Bijay Mohapatra said a conspiracy has been hatched to deface the Jagannath Temple.