SJTA seeks report from ASI on leakage of temple pix

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration(SJTA) today sought explanation from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) over the leakage of photographs of the under repair 12th century shrine in Puri in the social media platform.
Photos of repair work of 'Jagamohan', the hall facing the sanctum sanctorum of the 12th century shrine, were found posted on the social media.
"It is a matter of great concern to note that a scientist from CMFRI (Central Mining and Fuel Research Institute) engaged by the ASI to advise on improving the ventilation system inside 'Garavgriha' (sanctum sanctorum) of Shree Janagannath Temple, Puri, has posted some photographs of the inside of 'Garavgriha' in the public domian in face book," SJTA chief administrator P K Jena wrote to the Superintending Archaeologist, ASI.

He sought explanation of ASI on the matter within three days for taking further action.
Stating that this has resulted in a lot of hue and cry in the media, among the priests and in public, Jena said, "This is a serious issue relating to safety and security of the temple."
Only ASI has been authorised to take photographs inside the temple premises which are required for the conservation and repair work and is aware those will be used for documentation and not for sharing in the public domain.

No other organisation or person are allowed to take any such photograph without prior permission of the temple administration, Jena said.

The SJTA wanted explanation from the ASI on the circumstances in which the photographs were taken by the CMFRI scientists and not by the authorised photographer of ASI and who allowed the CMFRI team to share the pictures in public domain.
"What action have you (ASI) taken for such serious lapse ofthe CMFRI team, which creates droubts in the minds of the people on the action of ASI in compromising the safety and security of the temple?" the letter said.
Jena also sought to know from ASI what mechanism it has put in place to restrict such lapses in future as many organisations of national repute and experts in monument conservation are being engaged by it to advise on the restoration of this historic temple.

Asked about the particular scientist, who posted the picture, Jena said the scientist who posted the picture has been identified and has apologised to all devotees of Sri Jagannath Temple.
Meanwhile Justice B P Das Commission of Inquiry for Reforms in Srimandir has sought a report from the state law secretary, SJTA, Puri collector and superintendent of police after photos of repair works of the Jagamohan were found posted on social media.
It directed the authorities to submit a detailed report in connection with the incident within 10 days.
The Commission also said that the recommendations made for strengthening security at the temple are not being followed and persons who have posted the pictures on social media should be identified and be arrested if required.