Non-servitors banned from climbing chariots during Rath Yatra: Law Minister

THE Odisha government will take stringent legal action, including arrests, against any non-servitor found climbing the chariots during this year's Rath Yatra in Puri, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Sunday.

- PBD BUREAU/PTI

He also asserted that use of mobile phones on the chariots will be strictly prohibited.

Speaking to reporters, Harichandan said, "No non-servitor will be allowed to climb the chariots. If any such person is found on the chariot, strong action including arrest will be taken. Also, servitors will not be allowed to carry mobile phones onto the chariots."

To ensure the timely completion of rituals and maintain discipline during the 'Pahandi Bije' (the ceremonial procession) of the deities, the government has requested a list of servitors designated to perform rituals on Rath Yatra day (June 27). "The final list will be enforced strictly," the Minister said.

Meanwhile, DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania held a meeting here to review the security measures for the Rath Yatra.