Odisha Govt Bans Non-Servitors from Climbing Rath Yatra Chariots, Warns of Arrests

The Odisha government has announced a strict ban on non-servitors climbing the chariots during this year’s Rath Yatra in Puri, warning that violators will face stringent legal action, including arrest.

Addressing the media on Sunday, Law Minister Prithviraj 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.”

He further added that mobile phones will also be strictly prohibited on the chariots. “Servitors themselves are not permitted to carry mobile phones during the rituals,” the Minister clarified.

The decision comes amid heightened security and crowd management measures for the annual Rath Yatra, a major religious festival drawing lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. The government’s move aims to ensure the sanctity of the rituals and the safety of both the deities and the pilgrims.

The district administration and police have been instructed to enforce the directives strictly. Authorities have appealed to devotees to cooperate with the guidelines to ensure a smooth and sacred celebration.