Bhubaneswar, GTNS September, 08/26 : The Odisha government is preparing to undertake a comprehensive settlement of land records associated with Lord Jagannath, with the move aimed at bringing greater clarity and legal security to properties belonging to the deity.Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has indicated that steps are being taken to resolve long-pending issues concerning Jagannath land. The proposed exercise is expected to focus on identifying the deity’s properties, verifying existing records and addressing discrepancies in land documentation.The issue holds particular significance because properties belonging to Lord Jagannath are considered sacred assets and are administered under the established legal framework governing the Shree Jagannath Temple.Officials are expected to examine historical records alongside present land documents to determine the actual status of the properties. Where necessary, the settlement process could help remove confusion over ownership, possession and revenue records.The government’s initiative is also being viewed as an effort to strengthen protection of temple properties and prevent disputes or unauthorised claims in the future. A systematic record of the deity’s land holdings could make monitoring and administration more effective.The proposed settlement may cover land-related cases that have remained unresolved for years. Authorities are likely to coordinate with revenue officials and temple administration during the process.The government has maintained that safeguarding the properties of Lord Jagannath is a matter of public and religious importance. A transparent settlement of records could therefore become an important step toward protecting the temple’s assets for future generations.
