Daijiworld Media Network - Puri
Puri, Aug 13: A fresh security scare has gripped the holy town of Puri after threatening graffiti was discovered on the walls of a smaller temple in close proximity to the revered 12th-century Jagannath Temple. The message, written in Odia, warned of a potential terrorist attack and has prompted swift action from local authorities.
The alarming message – “Terrorist will destroy the Temple” – appeared in two places on the walls of the Budhi Maa Thakurani temple, which lies near the Balisahi entrance of the Heritage Corridor (Puri Parikrama Prakalpa Marg), just south of the Jagannath Temple complex.
What further raised concerns was the inclusion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s name and several unverified mobile numbers alongside the graffiti. The content has triggered an immediate response from the Puri Police.
DIG-cum-Superintendent of Police, Pinak Mishra, addressed the media, stating:
“We have taken serious note of the incident. A special investigation team has been formed to track down the individual responsible. CCTV footage from the temple and nearby areas is being thoroughly examined.”
Mishra confirmed that investigators have already gathered initial leads in the case, though no arrests have been made yet. Based on preliminary findings, the act of vandalism likely occurred on Tuesday night.
Adding a layer of complexity to the investigation, some local residents have come forward with claims that a person believed to be mentally unstable was seen scribbling unrelated messages in the area over the past few days. Authorities are considering all possibilities, including psychological factors and deliberate mischief.
This incident follows growing concerns about temple security, especially after last month’s breach when unidentified individuals reportedly scaled the Meghanada Pacheri — the outer boundary wall of the Jagannath Temple — during the Rath Yatra festival. The breach had already sparked demands from devotees and senior servitors for tighter vigilance.
As the investigation continues, temple authorities and police have assured devotees that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the sanctity and security of one of India’s most iconic spiritual landmarks.