Post News Network
Bhubaneswar: Housing and urban development secretary G Mathi Vathanan Wednesday revealed that approval has been given to Iskcon trust to set up an institutional complex and not a temple.
The H&UD secretary told reporters here that according to a report of Puri-Konark Development Authority (PKDA), permission has been granted for construction of institutional complex of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) at Puri.
‘‘The complex will comprise Bhakta Niwas, temple, administrative building, museum and Prasad Bhawan as part of a temple. However, brochure published by the society, indicated that a structure similar to Shree Jagannath temple at Puri has been proposed,” Mathi Vathanan said.
Though the society had sought nod for G+6 (seven-storey) building, approval has been granted only for G+2 (three-storey) building at the proposed site, he said. With regard to the legal dispute of the land, the secretary said, “Allegations were made in May last year. The PKDA has asked the Iskcon authorities for personal appearance January 29.”
The government has also asked Iskcon to stop construction work until the ongoing land dispute is resolved. Law minister Arun Kumar Sahoo said nobody should be allowed to dilute the stature of Srimandir while excise minister Damodar Rout said, “The Iskcon’s proposal is not acceptable and it should not be allowed.”
Similarly, Opposition chief whip Taraprasad Bahinipati demanded institution of criminal cases against the persons who proposed the move.
Land survey today
Puri: Collector Arabind Agarwal Wednesday directed his officials to measure a plot at Sipasarubali mauza allotted to Iskcon. District administration sources said Agarwal has directed tehsildars of Puri and Brahmagiri and officials of the land consolidation department to conduct a land survey Thursday. His direction came amid reports that 30.99 acre land identified by Iskcon for the temple complex includes a government plot.
