Bhubaneswar: Govardhan Peeth, the revered seat of the Puri Shankaracharya and one of the four highest mutts of Hinduism, has strongly objected to the proposed opening of a liquor shop near the centuries-old monastery, citing concerns over religious sanctity, public safety and alleged violations of excise norms.The mutt has written to Puri district collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, seeking immediate cancellation of the permission granted for the outlet at Goudabada Sahi. In a letter dated Aug 16, the office of the Puri Shankaracharya stated that several religious, educational and residential establishments are located in close proximity to the proposed site.“Govardhan Peeth strongly objects to the permission granted for the liquor shop. Several mathas, including Govardhan Peeth, besides temples, schools and residential localities, are situated within 30 to 50 metres of the proposed location,” the letter said.The objection comes against the backdrop of Rule 26 of the Odisha Excise Rules, 2017, which prohibits liquor outlets within 300 metres of places of worship, petrol pumps, railway stations and bus stands in urban areas, and within 500 metres in rural areas. The rules also bar liquor shops within a 500-metre radius of recognised educational institutions and within 100 metres of bathing ghats.The Shankaracharya’s office said it acted after receiving representations from locals who expressed concern over the proposed establishment. “Puri is among the holiest centres of Sanatana Dharma. Devotees from across India and abroad visit the city for darshan of Lord Jagannath. Opening a liquor shop in such proximity to religious and educational institutions could disturb the spiritual atmosphere of the area and raise concerns about public safety, particularly for women, children and students,” the mutt said.Urging the district administration to intervene, the seer’s office said the proposal had triggered widespread concern among locals and religious institutions. “Govardhan Peeth strongly condemns and opposes the proposed liquor shop and requests your office to ensure that it is not allowed to operate at the proposed site, keeping in view the sanctity of Puri Dham and genuine concerns of local people,” the letter read. The district administration said the representation is under consideration. “We have received the letter from the Shankaracharya’s office and are examining the matter,” a senior district official said.