BHUBANESWAR: The state government will soon enact a special law for day to day management of the 11th century Lingaraj Temple in line with the Shri Jagannath Temple Act, 1955.
It was announced by chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday, after an on spot visit to review progress of various projects taken up under the Ekamra project that intends to develop the periphery around the Lingaraj Temple in old town area of the city.
“Soon, there will be a special act for Lingaraj Mandir like we have an act for Shri Mandir at Puri,” Naveen told reporters.
The state law department has already prepared a draft law for the Lingaraj temple, which is under consideration of the state government. The bill has provision to constitute a committee for management of the affairs of the 11th century shrine and its properties including its associated temples situated around it.
Though the rituals and day to day affairs of the temple is now being managed by a trust board constituted under the Odisha Hindu Religious Endowment Act, 1951.
“A special law for Lingaraj temple is necessary as the trust board is unable to execute the elaborate rituals and Seva Puja and the administration or management of the ancient temple. The 11th century temple has elaborate and exhaustive rituals (Nitis) and Seva Puja like Jagannath temple at Puri,” said a senior government officer.
As the temple has its religious significance, magnificent architecture and devotees and pilgrims from across the country visit the temple, the state government feels that the efficiency in administration and management of the temple needs to be improved, said the official.
The proposed law has provision for appointment of a full time administrator (professing Hindu religion), who should be an IAS officer and not below the rank of commissioner-cum-secretary. Also, a special fund will be created from donations and revenues of the temple.
Official sources said the state government will soon finalise the draft bill, which is likely to be tabled in the next session of the state assembly.
Naveen, during his visit to the project site, interacted with the sevayats, who also requested the chief minister to enact the law soon.
On Ekamra project, the chief minister said “I am also pleased to see the work progressing here,” said Naveen. He also expressed his gratitude to all, who have donated land for the Ekamra project. He offered prayers from the Singhadwar of the temple.
Under the Ekamra project, the state government chalked out a plan to to develop around 66 acres around the Lingaraj temple including massive infrastructure. Earlier, Naveen had directed the officials to complete significant portion of works before Shivratri.