Kakatpur, June 26 (UDN): A series of thefts at temples and monasteries in the Kakatpur-Astarang region of Puri district has raised serious concerns among devotees and local residents, with nearly 18 religious institutions reportedly burgled over the past six months.
According to local sources, unidentified miscreants have been repeatedly targeting temples and mathhs in the coastal belt, decamping with cash, gold ornaments, silver articles and other valuables. Despite several incidents being reported, police are yet to make any major breakthrough in the cases, leaving residents worried over the safety of religious institutions in the area.
The latest incident came to light on Thursday after burglars allegedly broke into the Harisahadeb Temple under Sisua Gram Panchayat on Wednesday night. The miscreants reportedly made away with a silver crown weighing around 1.3 kg, copper utensils and the temple’s donation box.
Residents alleged that the recurring thefts have exposed glaring security lapses at many temples in the region. The repeated incidents have not only caused financial losses but have also deeply hurt the religious sentiments of devotees.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of arrests, local people and temple management committees have urged the police administration to intensify investigations, identify the culprits and strengthen security measures at vulnerable temples.
Locals have demanded regular night patrolling, installation of CCTV cameras and enhanced police surveillance to prevent further incidents and restore public confidence.
Leave a Reply