Odisha government plans to ban sale and consumption of meat and alcohol within a 2-kilometer radius of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Move raises concerns among tourists, hoteliers.
Puri, Odisha
In a controversial move ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, the Odisha BJP government is preparing to impose a strict ban on the sale and consumption of meat, eggs, and liquor within a 2-kilometer radius of the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri.
The announcement was made by State Law and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday. The regulation will cover not only eateries but also bars and liquor shops along the sacred Grand Road — the key route connecting the Jagannath Temple and Gundicha Temple.
While the exact implementation date has not been revealed, insiders suggest the rule could come into effect before the Rath Yatra on June 27. The policy aims to maintain the sanctity of the temple zone but has triggered debate among tourists and local businesses.
“There will be no alcohol shops or non-vegetarian food stalls along the Grand Road. This is to preserve the purity of the area,” said Harichandan.
Zone of Control
The Grand Road, which hosts the world-famous Rath Yatra procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, will be completely alcohol- and meat-free. However, popular tourist spots such as Swargadwar, Chakratirth Road, and the Lighthouse area will remain outside this restriction due to their distance from the temple.
Urban Makeover Plan
The government also revealed a plan to regulate the architecture along the Grand Road to align with temple aesthetics. The Jagannath Temple Administration has submitted a proposal to the Housing and Urban Development Department to redesign nearby buildings.
Security has already been ramped up for the upcoming Snan Yatra on June 11, with over 70 platoons of police and AI-powered cameras deployed throughout Puri.