In an effective stoppage of Odisha government’s demolition drive around Jagannath Temple in Puri, India’s apex court seeks a status report on demolitions carried out so far. The court expressed serious concern at the demolition of centuries-old Mutts.  Significantly, the Supreme Court bench specifically asked the Odisha government not to touch places visited by Guru Nanak.

AFTER HEARING COUNSELS of Indic Collective and taking into account the report of the court-appointed Amicus Curie in the hearing of the Hindu Mutts demolition case outside the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Supreme Court directed the Odisha government to give a status report on the demolitions that have already been carried out and posted the matter for 22 October.

Putting an effective stop to the demolition drive of the Odisha government, the court reportedly observed that the consent of Shankaracharya of Puri Peeth, Swami Sri Nischalananda Saraswati Maharaj and the Sevayats is necessary before any demolition is carried out.

When the writ Petition (C) No. 649/2018, relating to the administration of the Jagannath Puri Temple was taken up by Justice Arun Mishra, the report of Amicus curiae Senior Advocate Shri Ranjit Kumar on the ongoing demolition drive in Puri was considered and the bench expressed serious reservations with the demolition of centuries-old Mutts by the Odisha government.

The Bench observed that even if the Mutts were in a dilapidated condition, given their religious significance and historical value, they cannot be demolished.  The Bench directed Odisha Govt to commit resources to the resettlement of affected parties before taking any further steps with respect to demolition.

Counsels of the Mahants requested the Court to direct the State government to consult with Mahants prior to taking any further action, to which the Bench agreed and asked the Odisha government to consult Mahants who are stakeholders as Mathadipathis.

“Structures reminiscent of Guru Nanak’s visit and place of stay must not be demolished.” 

Supreme Court of India

Calling the attention of the Odisha state government towards demolition of age-old structures, the three-judge bench orally observed that, “Structures reminiscient of Guru Nanak’s visit and place of stay must not be demolished.”

This puts an effective stop on the demolition drive of the Odisha government and the government will do well to consider making of a corridor around the temple without destruction of heritage buildings and take necessary steps to strengthen old structures with the expertise of conservationists.