The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) on Sunday announced that the devotees will not be required to produce COVID-19 negative report for getting entry into the 12th century shrine in Puri from January 21.
The decision in this regard was taken at a meeting attended by SJTA chief Krishan Kumar, Puri District Magistrate-cum Collector Samarth Verma and Superintendent of Police K.B. Singh.
At present devotees entering the temple have to show COVID-19 negative report.
“The devotees can enter into the temple without having COVID-19 negative report from January 21. The decision will remain in force till February 21,” SJTA chief told reporters.
But, all the other COVID-19 protocols like wearing of mask, social distancing will continue to be mandatory in the temple, officials said.
After February 21, the temple management committee will review the situation and take future course of action, they said.
The temple opened for public from January 3 after remaining closed for nine…