Puri, March 30: A foreign visitor purportedly assaulted both a temple servitor and police officers during an attempt to enter the revered Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Saturday.
In the altercation, two police officers and a temple servitor sustained injuries. Subsequently, law enforcement intervened, rescuing the tourist and escorting him to the police station for further interrogation.
The individual in question, identified as Thomas Craze Sheldon, a British national, also caused disturbance within the precincts of the police station.
Earlier in the day, Thomas, under the influence of alcohol, had caused a commotion at the sea beach near Swarga Dwar. Police intervened and apprehended him, subsequently transporting him to the Sea Beach police station. Despite this, he was later released upon giving an assurance.
Later during the day, while still inebriated, Thomas made another attempt to gain entry into the ancient 12th-century shrine, where he encountered resistance from both a temple servitor and police personnel. In response, he purportedly assaulted them.
Following the incident, Thomas was detained and brought to the Town police station. It is reported that the intoxicated tourist further caused damage by breaking a window glass while police officials were verifying his details. Additionally, he reportedly injured himself by striking his head against the window.
In light of his injuries, Thomas was admitted to the Puri district headquarters hospital for medical attention.
