CUTTACK: The High Court on Thursday issued notices to the Director-General of Archaeological Survey of India, State Government, Bhubaneswar Circle Superintendent of ASI and Puri Collector on the shifting `Aruna Stambha’ from Puri to Konark and the collection of entry fee at the Sun temple. Basing on a PIL filed by Konark NAC chairman Japani Nayak and 28 other organisations, acting Chief Justice IM Quddusi and Justice Sanju Panda directed all to file their responses within four weeks.
The petitioners pleaded for shifting of the pillar which is stated to be originally of Konark. They have also challenged Rs 25 entry fee. The devotees had the right to worship everyday at the Chaya Maya temple in the precincts which has a small idol of Sun God. They cannot be charged fees for offering prayers or meditating inside, the petitioners contended.