Junagadh: A controversy has erupted after a video allegedly showing the consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food inside the bhandara (store/kitchen area) of the Ambaji Temple on Mount Girnar went viral on social media, triggering outrage among devotees. The administration has suspended 11 temple staff members, including priests, and ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident.

The viral video shows two to three persons allegedly consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol inside the temple premises and using abusive language. The incident, which reportedly took place inside the kitchen area of the temple’s bhandara, has been viewed as a serious violation of the sanctity of the religious site.

Viral Video Shows Liquor, Non-Veg Inside Girnar Ambaji Temple Bhandara; 10 Priests Among 11 Expelledhttps://t.co/l8maKVXnV9 pic.twitter.com/rY89rRAlm7

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Immediate action by the administration

Taking note of the viral clip, the Junagadh district administration ordered an immediate probe. Acting on preliminary findings, authorities suspended 10 priests and one cook with immediate effect, and the people seen in the video have been banned from entering the temple premises. Officials stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of hurting religious sentiments. Officials also said that those who were suspended were not present at the party and were suspended for negligence.

Junagadh City Mamlatdar A.K. Baraiya, who is currently overseeing the temple administration, said the action was taken on the basis of the viral video and the initial inquiry. He added that the temple management had appointed the staff on a temporary basis when the administration took over the shrine’s affairs, and their services have now been terminated after their alleged involvement came to light.

Purification ritual performed, further probe underway

Following the incident, a purification ritual was conducted in the temple complex, particularly in the kitchen and dining areas, under official supervision to restore the sanctity of the shrine. Authorities have also begun examining CCTV footage and other evidence to determine the exact sequence of events. Police action, including the registration of an FIR, is also being considered.

Background of administrative control

The Ambaji Temple on Girnar has been under government administration after disputes arose over succession following the demise of Mahant Tansukhgiri, who had managed the temple for years. Due to internal conflicts over the Mahant post, the administration took control of the temple to maintain order, and it is currently being managed by government-appointed officials.

Claims, reactions, and demands for strict action

The incident has sparked anger among saints, devotees, and local religious groups, who have demanded strict punishment for those responsible. A member of the late Mahant’s family clarified that no member of their family or priests of associated temples were involved in the video and urged the administration to file an FIR and impose a lifetime ban on entry to Girnar for those found guilty. DeshGujarat