Broken idols brought from outside: UP CM Yogi amid row over Manikarnika Ghat renovation
The controversy surrounding the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi has taken a new turn, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath claiming that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage. The statement comes amid allegations of destruction of ancient idols and statues during the redevelopment project. The opposition has been vocal in its criticism of the government, accusing it of being insensitive to the country’s cultural legacy.
The Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred ghats in Varanasi, is undergoing a major renovation as part of the government’s efforts to develop the city’s infrastructure and promote tourism. However, the project has been marred by controversy, with many alleging that the redevelopment work is being carried out without proper planning and consideration for the site’s historical and cultural significance.
At the center of the controversy is the alleged destruction of ancient idols and statues, including the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue. The opposition has attacked the government over the issue, accusing it of being reckless and insensitive to the country’s cultural heritage. However, the government has denied the allegations, with CM Yogi Adityanath claiming that the broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage.
“It is being claimed that idols are being demolished. There cannot be a bigger lie than this,” CM Yogi Adityanath said, dismissing the allegations of destruction of idols. The CM’s statement has sparked a fresh debate, with many questioning the government’s intentions and the authenticity of the claims made by the opposition.
The opposition has been quick to respond to the CM’s statement, accusing him of trying to deflect attention from the real issue. “The government is trying to cover up its own failure by making baseless claims,” said a spokesperson for the opposition party. “The fact is that the redevelopment project has been carried out without proper planning and consideration for the site’s cultural significance. The destruction of ancient idols and statues is a clear example of the government’s insensitivity to India’s heritage.”
The controversy surrounding the Manikarnika Ghat renovation is not an isolated incident. In recent years, there have been several instances of destruction of cultural and historical sites in India, often due to lack of planning and consideration for the site’s significance. The issue highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to development and urban planning, one that takes into account the cultural and historical significance of a site.
The government has a responsibility to protect and preserve India’s cultural heritage, and it is essential that development projects are carried out with sensitivity and care. The controversy surrounding the Manikarnika Ghat renovation is a wake-up call for the government to rethink its approach to development and to prioritize the preservation of India’s cultural legacy.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the Manikarnika Ghat renovation is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. While the government has denied the allegations of destruction of ancient idols and statues, the opposition has accused it of being insensitive to India’s cultural heritage. The issue highlights the need for a more careful and considered approach to development and urban planning, one that prioritizes the preservation of India’s cultural legacy.
As the debate continues, it is essential to remember that India’s cultural heritage is a precious resource that requires protection and preservation. The government must take a more proactive approach to safeguarding the country’s historical and cultural sites, and development projects must be carried out with sensitivity and care. Only then can we ensure that India’s rich cultural legacy is preserved for future generations.
Read the full story at: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
News Source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
About the Author
