The Daily Pioneer
PURI, ORISSA, July 12, 2004: The Orissa Government is likely to amend the Jagannath Temple Act to ensure better administration and management of resources at the State’s most famous shrine which has been going through tough times. The 12th century temple is not only facing a funds crunch but also problems of security. Sources said the amendment would focus on revamping the administration and the security set-up of the temple which is the biggest tourist attraction of the holy town of Puri drawing millions of pilgrims every year. While a senior IAS officer is likely to be appointed the chief administrator of the shrine, another post of administrator (development) could be created to focus exclusively on resource generation and improving facilities in and around the temple. This job may also be entrusted to an IAS officer. An Orissa Administrative Service (OAS) officer would be appointed to look after the rituals of the temple even as security would be placed in the hands of an IPS officer not below the rank of additional superintendent of police (ASP). Security has been a major concern ever since intelligence sleuths warned the Government against a possible terrorist attack on the State’s most revered shrine. Not long ago, a top ranking police officer from Delhi visited Puri for a security survey of the temple and suggested measures for improvement.