Kendrapara, May 6: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Odisha government seeking a detailed report on the deteriorating condition of basic amenities at the historic Baladevjew Temple in Kendrapara district.
The Commission has directed the district collector and superintendent of police (SP) to submit an action-taken report within four weeks. Copies of the directive have also been sent to Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja and Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania.
The move comes in response to a complaint filed with the NHRC, alleging severe neglect by the temple’s endowment trust board, local police, and district administration. The complaint claims that the 300-year-old temple is suffering from a lack of upkeep and poor management, which has led to unhygienic conditions and inappropriate behavior within the premises.
Specific allegations include filthy toilets, the consumption of alcohol, and the presence of anti-social elements on temple grounds, all of which have reportedly tarnished the sanctity of the revered religious site.
Despite repeated public complaints, no significant action has been taken, the petitioner stated, calling the ongoing neglect a violation of both religious sentiments and the basic human rights of the devotees.
The complaint also pointed out that although 40 CCTV cameras were installed for surveillance, most are reportedly non-functional, raising serious concerns about security and oversight within the temple complex.
