Though no major untoward incident happened during the Rath Yatra here on Saturday, some trespassers were found rushing to the chariots and touching deities in the presence of top police officials despite a ban on climbing on the chariots.
Even though many senior Government officials were in place to make sure that nobody dared to touch the deities, they remained mute spectators.
Sources said some pilgrims with connivance of the servitors touched the deities and created nuisances. It was also alleged that the incidence happened in the knowledge of the top officials who did not want to displease the servitors.
Besides, some people pulled the Tahiyas (floral crowns) of the deities.
Moreover, despite a strong diktat issued to officers to limit entry inside the cordon near the lions’ Gate of Shreemandir during Pahandi, it was in fact seen as a free area for all.
Hundreds of outsiders, without a pass, were present in the cordon. The entrants were reportedly the relatives and known faces of officers present on duty near the gate.
Even some Jatris of servitors made their entry and enjoyed Pahandi standing closer to the deities. Nobody objected them. Some people were found talking with some officers.
Even allegation of black marketing of cordon pass has come to the fore. Many people carrying ‘Charity and Free services’ cards in their chests were present. How did they get pass is a big question being asked by many.