No Theft at Puri: Odisha Minister Refutes 'Modak' Allegations

Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has categorically denied claims that 'modak', a special ladoo offered in the Jagannath temple, was stolen. The allegation surfaced from a section of servitors, leading to a controversy.

Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee confirmed that no 'modaks' went missing after a thorough inquiry. The investigation was initiated after Haladhar Das Mohapatra, Lord Balabhadra's 'Badagrahi', alleged the loss of 70 out of 313 'modaks', originally stored under strict security.

Despite the controversies, the SJTA has assured that the sanctity of the offering remains unblemished, with no evidence found to support the theft claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)