July 26, 2026 – Chattogram, Bangladesh: Allegations of theft, vandalism, and assault have emerged at the historic Sri Sri Jagannath Ashram in Sitakunda Municipality, Chattogram. According to the Ashram’s management committee, two committee members were injured in separate incidents following an alleged break-in at the temple.
According to the management committee, a group of unidentified individuals entered the Ashram on Thursday night, vandalized CCTV cameras, and broke into the office. The intruders allegedly forced open an office cabinet and stole important documents, various valuables, and cash kept in a drawer.
The committee further alleged that on Friday afternoon, several individuals entered the Ashram and assaulted members of the management committee. During the incident, an attempt was also reportedly made to snatch the camera of a journalist who was present and trying to document the events.
Leaders of the current management committee claimed that the incidents were linked to an ongoing dispute over financial accounts and alleged irregularities involving the previous committee. They alleged that individuals associated with the expelled faction were responsible for both the theft and the assault. The committee also stated that a written complaint had been filed with the local police against two former temple attendants allegedly connected to the opposing group.
However, the two expelled attendants from the previous committee denied all allegations. While expressing dissatisfaction with the current committee’s activities, they rejected any involvement in the alleged theft or assault.
The management committee has called for the protection of the security and sanctity of the Jagannath Ashram, a fair and impartial investigation into the incidents, and the swift prosecution of those found responsible.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Mohinul Islam of Sitakunda Model Police Station said that police visited the scene after receiving information about the incident. He stated that legal action would be taken against those found responsible following an investigation based on the written complaint.
