PURI, Jan 21 : Puri police have detained a person for circulating a bomb threat on social media against the Sri Jagannath Temple, the Grand Centre Market near the Srimandir, and Rajya Sabha member Subhasis Khuntia.
The Simhadwar Police have registered a case and are questioning the individual to ascertain their involvement.
Preliminary investigations reveal that Julirani Panda allegedly uploaded the threat on her Facebook account. Authorities are working to trace the origin of the post, including the IP address used.
The Sri Jagannath Temple is considered a potential target for terror attacks. Last year, a threatening message was found written on the wall of Emar Mutt, raising concerns about the security of the sacred site.
Puri Superintendent of Police Pratik Singh stated that security measures have been strengthened at the temple and surrounding areas.
Teams from the Special Tactical Unit (STU) and Srimandir Surakshya Bahini have been deployed, and an investigative team led by a DSP has been formed. Facebook has been asked to provide details about the account holder, operator, and location of the post.
It also emerged that a web channel editor had previously received threats from the same account and filed a complaint with Baselisahi Police Station, which is investigating the matter. Police are also questioning social media users who may have forwarded the post.
Rajya Sabha MP Subhasis Khuntia confirmed that he recently received a message from an unknown number demanding Rs 10 lakh or his resignation. Initially dismissing it as a hoax, Khuntia took the threat seriously after seeing the Facebook post by Julirani Panda targeting his life.
He has formally complained to the police and requested security for his family, suggesting the threat may have political motives.
Khuntia has informed the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Chief Minister, and Director General of Police about the threats via email. The issue has also stirred discussions among the temple servitor community.
(UNI )
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