HC gives govt 3 months to tally Jagannath Temple treasure with 1978 inventory

The Orissa High Court has ordered the state government to complete a comprehensive tally of the treasure from the Jagannath Temple within three months, referencing an inventory last conducted in 1978. The court emphasized that this undertaking should not be a dormant exercise, asserting that it is the government's obligation to act swiftly. This ruling follows concerns regarding the management and accountability of temple assets, which are of significant cultural and religious importance to the region. The Jagannath Temple, located in Puri, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees annually. The court's directive aims to ensure transparency and proper stewardship of the temple's wealth, which includes not only monetary assets but also valuable artifacts and offerings made by devotees over decades. The decision reflects a broader concern for the preservation and appropriate management of cultural heritage in India, highlighting the judiciary's role in enforcing accountability within religious institutions.