Bhubaneswar, Oct 18: Following widespread discontent among habisyalis, the Puri district administration intervened to address the issue of stranded pilgrims who were left without accommodation. These elderly women, who travel to Puri during the holy month of Kartika for spiritual observances, faced hardships when the promised lodging arrangements fell short.

Puri District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain visited the protest site at Brundaban Ashram, where the habisyalis were agitating for shelter. His visit followed concerns raised by local MLA Jayanta Kumar Sarangi, who urged immediate action. Swain assured the protestors that proper accommodation would be arranged, leading to the withdrawal of the protest.

Although the Odisha government had promised facilities, a sudden closure of the registration portal on the second day, instead of five, caused confusion. Many pilgrims were left stranded without alternatives. The administration’s assurance provided some relief, but the incident highlighted gaps in planning and execution, sparking concerns about the smooth management of future pilgrim services.

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