Overview

• The state will dispatch packs containing two traditional sweetmeats and a photograph of the Digha Jagannath temple from June 17, aiming to complete delivery before July 4 through the Duare Ration system.
• BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari alleges that designated local sweet shops, not temple kitchens, will supply the ₹20 prasad packets as part of a political strategy to woo Hindu voters.
• The Trinamool Congress counters that all ingredients will first be offered to Lord Jagannath at Digha before being sent to local manufacturers, ensuring the sweets remain authentic prasad.
• Minister Indranil Sen confirms the mahaprasad initiative is non-discriminatory and will reach every household regardless of faith ahead of the Rath Yatra festival.
• Opposition and Odisha officials have also challenged the use of the “Jagannath Dham” title and temple branding, raising questions about cultural appropriation and religious sanctity.