Puri Jagannath Temple Administration Constitutes Teams for Ratna Bhandar Inventory
In a significant development ahead of the inventory of valuables in the Ratna Bhandar of the Puri Jagannath Temple, the shrine administration has officially formed two specialized teams for this critical exercise. The date for the inventory remains to be finalized, but this move comes in direct response to the Orissa High Court's directive issued on January 27, which mandated the government to complete the process within a strict three-month timeframe.
Formation of Supervisory and Handling Teams
Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Arabinda Kumar Padhee, announced that the two teams—supervisory and handling—have been constituted in accordance with a standard operating procedure (SOP) approved by the government. Both teams will be headed by Padhee himself, ensuring centralized oversight and coordination.
Supervisory Team Composition:
- Chief Administrator (Arabinda Kumar Padhee)
- Two members from the previously formed high-level committee (HLC) on Ratna Bhandar
- One member of the Ratna Bhandar sub-committee
This team will be responsible for monitoring the entire inventory process to ensure adherence to protocols and transparency.
Handling Team Composition:
- Chief Administrator (Arabinda Kumar Padhee)
- HLC Chairman
- A servitor from the temple managing committee
- Four other servitors
- Six empanelled goldsmiths from a public sector bank
- Two gemologists
- Two officials from the Reserve Bank of India
- Two photographers
The handling team will conduct the actual audit of the gems and jewellery, employing expert personnel to ensure accuracy and thoroughness.
Operational Details and Security Measures
To maintain order and security during the inventory, Padhee clarified that only three members from the supervisory team and ten from the handling team will be permitted inside the Ratna Bhandar at any given time. Each participant will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement, binding them to secrecy regarding the findings. The temple administration has emphasized that only the government holds the authority to make the inventory results public, safeguarding the sanctity and privacy of the process.
A schedule for the exercise is expected to be finalized during the upcoming meeting of the temple managing committee next week. Once completed, the inventory list will be submitted to this committee, with a certified copy forwarded to the government for official records.
Cross-Verification and Documentation
Padhee highlighted that the findings from this inventory will be meticulously cross-verified with the last audited report prepared in 1978, ensuring historical consistency and accuracy. The process will also include detailed photography and the creation of a comprehensive digital catalogue. This digital archive aims to preserve the records for future reference and enhance the management of the temple's assets.
Importantly, Padhee reiterated that no valuation of the Ratna Bhandar's articles will be undertaken during this exercise. The focus remains solely on inventory and documentation, respecting the spiritual and cultural significance of the valuables.
Budget Allocation and Government Support
In a show of support, the state government allocated Rs 5 crore in the budget last week specifically for this inventory exercise. This funding underscores the importance placed on this task and ensures that the teams have the necessary resources to conduct their work efficiently and effectively.
The formation of these teams marks a proactive step by the temple administration to comply with judicial directives while upholding the traditions and security of one of India's most revered temples. As the process moves forward, all eyes will be on the meticulous execution of this historic inventory.
