Broken idols brought from outside: UP CM Yogi amid row over Manikarnika Ghat renovation
The redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi has sparked a controversy, with Opposition parties alleging that the Uttar Pradesh government is destroying historical idols and statues in the process. However, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed these claims, stating that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage. In a recent statement, the CM said, “It is being claimed that idols are being demolished. There cannot be a bigger lie than this.”
The row began when reports emerged that several idols and a statue of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, a prominent 18th-century queen, had been damaged or destroyed during the renovation work at Manikarnika Ghat. The Opposition was quick to attack the government, accusing it of being insensitive to India’s cultural heritage. The Samajwadi Party and the Congress party were among those who criticized the government, demanding that the renovation work be stopped immediately.
However, CM Yogi Adityanath has denied these allegations, saying that the government is committed to preserving India’s cultural heritage. He claimed that the broken idols were brought from outside to create a false narrative about the government’s intentions. The CM said that the renovation work at Manikarnika Ghat is being carried out with the utmost care and respect for the site’s historical significance.
The renovation of Manikarnika Ghat is part of a larger project to redevelop the ghats along the Ganges River in Varanasi. The project aims to improve the infrastructure and amenities at the ghats, making it easier for pilgrims and tourists to visit the site. The government has said that the renovation work is being carried out in consultation with experts and stakeholders, including local priests and community leaders.
Despite the government’s assurances, the controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat continues to simmer. The Opposition has demanded a probe into the allegations of destruction of idols and statues, and has accused the government of being insensitive to the feelings of the people. The issue has also sparked a debate on social media, with many people expressing their outrage and disappointment over the alleged destruction of historical idols.
In the midst of this controversy, CM Yogi Adityanath has appealed to the people to not believe in false narratives and to trust the government’s intentions. He has said that the government is committed to preserving India’s cultural heritage and will take all necessary steps to ensure that historical sites are protected and respected.
The controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat has also raised questions about the role of the government in preserving cultural heritage. While the government has a responsibility to protect and preserve historical sites, it is also important to balance this with the need to develop infrastructure and amenities for the people. The issue highlights the need for a nuanced and sensitive approach to cultural preservation, one that takes into account the complex and often competing interests of different stakeholders.
In conclusion, the controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat is a complex issue that requires a thoughtful and nuanced approach. While the government has denied allegations of destroying historical idols, the Opposition has demanded a probe into the matter. As the debate continues, it is essential to remember the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage and to approach the issue with sensitivity and respect.
The Uttar Pradesh government has a responsibility to ensure that historical sites are protected and preserved for future generations. At the same time, the government must also balance this with the need to develop infrastructure and amenities for the people. The controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat highlights the need for a careful and considered approach to cultural preservation, one that takes into account the complex and often competing interests of different stakeholders.
As the issue continues to unfold, it is essential to rely on credible sources of information and to avoid spreading false narratives. The people of India have a right to know the truth about the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat, and it is the responsibility of the government and the media to provide them with accurate and reliable information.
For more information on this issue, you can follow the news updates on social media and news websites. The latest updates on the controversy can be found at https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360.
News Source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
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