Honourable Orissa High Court Dismisses Plea, Safeguards Lord Jagannath’s Land for Pilgrims’ Welfare

Puri : 16/09/2025 – The Hon’ble Orissa High Court has dismissed IA No.109 of 2024 filed in a disposed-of review petition concerning land belonging to Shri Jagannath Mahaprabhu Bije, Puri, reaffirming that temple properties must serve the interests of the deity and devotees. The Court upheld the SJTA’s resolution dated 13 July 2017 to construct a guest house for pilgrims on the disputed land, noting that this step is in consonance with the Supreme Court’s directives in matters of temple management and asset protection. The judgment, hailed as a landmark in temple property protection, emphasizes that “the land belongs to Lord Jagannath, a perpetual minor, and its use must prioritize public welfare over private claims.” The guest house project will provide affordable accommodation to lakhs of devotees visiting Puri, strengthening facilities for pilgrims while safeguarding the inviolable assets of the Lord. Advocate Shri Ananda Ch. Swain is appearing for SJTA in this case.