Shree Jagannath Temple: A Step Towards Inclusivity for Persons with Disabilities

Enhancing Accessibility at Shree Jagannath Temple for PwDs

The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is undergoing significant modifications to improve accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has approved the construction of a ramp near the northern gate, which aims to facilitate entry for differently-abled devotees.

Proposal and Approval for ramp construction

The ramp was proposed by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and has received the necessary approval from ASI. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance accessibility within the temple complex.

Previous Efforts for Barrier-Free Access

Efforts to provide barrier-free access for PwDs are not new. In 2015, driven by campaigns from disability activists, a steel ramp was installed, and wooden wheelchairs were made available. However, this only allowed access to the Lion's Gate, leaving the main shrine inaccessible.

Challenges Faced in Previous Attempts

The earlier attempt was limited as wheelchairs could only be used up to the Lion's Gate. Beyond this point, differently-abled individuals required physical assistance to enter the shrine, which posed risks, particularly for individuals with neurological injuries.

Legal Proceedings for Full Access

The issue escalated to legal action when a petition was filed in the Orissa High Court, invoking the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. The petition sought full access to the shrine, prompting the court to instruct the temple's managing committee to address the matter. This led to contempt petitions and show-cause notices when the decision was delayed.

Current Access Improvement Plans

As part of the current initiatives, a stone ramp is set to be constructed, allowing wheelchairs to carry individuals with mobility and visual impairments directly into the temple's sanctum sanctorum. This change aims to ensure that all devotees can fully participate in the temple's sacred practices.

Larger Initiative for Accessibility

The modifications at the Jagannath Temple are part of a broader access audit involving 14 popular shrines under the tourism ministry’s PRASAD scheme. This initiative aims to ensure better accessibility for all visitors, promoting inclusivity across various religious sites.

Significance of Removing Barriers

The removal of barriers in Srimandir is significant for many reasons. It not only benefits thousands of devotees who previously couldn’t access the deities fully but also sets a precedent for other ancient shrines throughout India. This embodies the spirit of inclusivity that is central to Jagannath culture.

Support from the Mukti Mandap

The Mukti Mandap, the highest seat of scholars of the Jagannath Temple, has endorsed the cause of providing full access to differently-abled devotees, further emphasizing the temple's commitment to inclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What new changes are being made for PwDs at Shree Jagannath Temple?
Answer: A ramp is being constructed near the northern gate to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities, allowing them to enter the temple more easily.

Q2. Who approved the ramp construction at the temple?
Answer: The ramp proposal was made by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration and received approval from the Archaeological Survey of India.

Q3. Why was the previous accessibility attempt insufficient?
Answer: The previous steel ramp only allowed access to the Lion's Gate, and individuals required assistance to enter the main shrine, which posed safety risks.

Q4. How did legal action arise regarding temple access for PwDs?
Answer: A petition was filed in the Orissa High Court, invoking the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, leading to the court's directive for full access.

Q5. What does the broader initiative for the Jagannath Temple involve?
Answer: The temple is part of an access audit involving 14 shrines under the tourism ministry’s PRASAD scheme, aimed at improving accessibility for all visitors.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What new facility is being constructed at Shree Jagannath Temple for PwDs?
A) An elevator
B) A stone ramp
C) A waiting area
D) A parking lot
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization approved the ramp construction at the temple?
A) Ministry of Culture
B) Archaeological Survey of India
C) Temple Management Committee
D) Ministry of Tourism
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What was the limitation of the previous ramp installation at the temple?
A) It was too narrow
B) It only reached the Lion's Gate
C) It was made of wood
D) It was removed
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What legal action was taken regarding access for PwDs at the temple?
A) A petition to the Supreme Court
B) A petition to the Orissa High Court
C) A public protest
D) A letter to the President
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which body supported the accessibility initiative at the Jagannath Temple?
A) Local Government
B) Mukti Mandap
C) ASI
D) Tourism Ministry
Correct Answer: B