Bodh Gaya: A sudden drone crash at the office premises of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) on Wednesday created panic at Bihar’s Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Buddhism’s holiest shrines.
The incident caused chaos among staff, who were shocked to see a drone in what is considered a highly restricted zone. Shortly afterwards, a Buddhist monk who serves as a priest at the temple admitted that the drone was his and had been flown within the premises.
According to regulations, drones are banned in and around the Mahabodhi Temple complex, which draws thousands of pilgrims and international visitors daily. The restrictions were tightened after the 2013 terror attack on the site, which left multiple people injured.
BTMC officials expressed displeasure at the violation. Dr Arvind Kumar Singh, a committee member, said: “Flying a drone in the premises is against the rules. This matter will be investigated.” Attempts to reach BTMC Secretary Dr Mahasweta Maharathi for comment were unsuccessful.
