• Source:JND
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In a major step to uphold the sanctity of Puri’s Jagannath temple, the Odisha government has decided to prohibit the sale of non-vegetarian food and liquor within a 2-kilometre radius of the shrine. The announcement was made by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday, underscoring the administration’s commitment to maintaining the spiritual atmosphere of the sacred town.

“A complete ban on the sale of meat and liquor, including in bars, within a 2-km radius of the Jagannath temple will be enforced," said Harichandan, who also holds the excise portfolio.

The minister further clarified that this restriction will apply along the entire stretch of the Grand Road, a significant thoroughfare linking the Jagannath temple to the Gundicha temple. “There will be no liquor shop or bar on the Grand Road. Besides, sale of meat and non-veg items will also be banned on the Grand Road,” he stated.

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Although the government has not yet specified the implementation date for the new rules, the move is part of a larger strategy to enhance the spiritual character and aesthetic appeal of the temple surroundings.

The state is considering measures to standardise the appearance of buildings lining the Grand Road. According to Harichandan, the government plans to ensure uniformity in the height and façade of these structures.

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Earlier, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had approached the Housing and Urban Development Department, urging it to formulate guidelines for consistent architectural design around the temple precincts.