The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sought permission to inspect the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar (treasury) of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri by a technical expert committee for the safety and upkeep of the ancient monument.
In an affidavit before Orissa High Court, the ASI’s Puri Circle said it could assess the quantum of conservation work or repair only after the Ratna Bhandar was inspected.
The affidavit says the ASI had not received permission from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) for the inspection of the Ratna Bhandar by the technical expert committee from inside to assess whether it required maintenance or repairs, as directed by the Orissa HC in its order on March 22 and March 29, 2018.
