A political storm brews as BJP questions YouTuber Kamiya Jani's entry to Shree Jagannath Temple over alleged beef consumption, sparking a clash with BJD and temple authorities.
A controversy has arisen surrounding the recent visit of YouTuber Kamiya Jani to Odisha's Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) questioning how someone allegedly associated with beef consumption gained entry to the sacred 12th-century shrine. Jatin Mohanty, the Odisha BJP general secretary, called for Jani's arrest under section 295 of the Indian Penal Code, accusing her of hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus.
In a video on her YouTube channel, Jani was seen interacting with VK Pandian, a bureaucrat-turned-politician linked to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The discussion focused on the significance of 'Mahaprasad,' the ongoing heritage corridor project, and other aspects of temple development. However, the BJP objected to Jani's presence, citing the alleged use of a video camera, prohibited by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).
Jatin Mohanty stated, "It has come to light that BJD leader VK Pandian along with YouTuber Kamiya Jani made a video on tasting 'Mahaprasad' at Puri Jagannath temple. Earlier, Kamiya Jani posted a video eating beef. Beef-eaters are strictly not allowed inside Jagannath temple. We have urged that a case should be registered against them under 295 IPC for hurting the religious sentiments of a community. If they are not arrested, then we will approach the court."
As the controversy escalated, Jani addressed the issue on her Instagram, emphasizing her mission to promote Indian culture and heritage globally. The SJTA responded, dismissing the political party's allegations of a camera being taken inside the temple as baseless.
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) held a press conference, criticizing the BJP for alleged intolerance and clarified that Jani consumed 'Mahaprasad' at Radha Ballav 'Mutt' (monastery) and not within the temple premises.
Jani, known for her interviews with various celebrities and politicians, including Rahul Gandhi and Anurag Thakur, denied the accusations, stating, "Not that anyone has reached out to me, but just here to clarify that I don’t and have never eaten Beef. Jai Jagannath."