Puri: A drone was spotted flying over the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri early on Thursday, triggering security concerns just six days before the annual Ratha Jatra of the deities. Police have detained a youth involved in operating the drone and seized the device.

According to reports, the drone hovered above the temple's Neelachakra for a significant period and allegedly recorded video footage. The incident prompted swift action from security personnel.

Police tracked down and detained the drone operator from Matimandap Sahi before bringing him to the Singhadwara Police Station for questioning.

The detained individual has been identified as Jayakrishna Mondal from Kolkata. Police are investigating the purpose behind the drone flight and whether he acted alone or was part of a larger network.

The incident has sparked concern among servitors and devotees, who questioned why an anti-drone system has not yet been installed despite repeated incidents of drones being spotted over the temple.

With lakhs of devotees expected to visit Puri during the Ratha Jatra, they expressed fears that any lapse in security could pose a serious risk.