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 government is destroying ancient idols and statues in the process. However, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has come to the defense of his government, claiming that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage. In a statement, the CM said, “It is being claimed that idols are being demolished. There cannot be a bigger lie than this.”
The controversy began when reports emerged that several ancient idols and statues, including the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue, were being destroyed as part of the renovation work. The opposition parties were quick to attack the government, accusing it of being insensitive to the country’s cultural heritage. However, the government has maintained that the renovation work is being carried out with utmost care and respect for the historical significance of the ghat.
CM Yogi Adityanath’s statement has added a new twist to the controversy, with the government now claiming that the broken idols were brought from outside to create a false narrative. The CM’s statement has sparked a debate, with many questioning the authenticity of the claim. While some have come out in support of the government, others have expressed skepticism, demanding proof to back up the claim.
The renovation of Manikarnika Ghat is part of a larger project to redevelop the ghats in Varanasi, a city considered sacred by Hindus. The project aims to improve the infrastructure and amenities at the ghats, making it easier for pilgrims and tourists to visit the area. However, the project has been marred by controversy, with concerns being raised about the impact of the renovation work on the historical and cultural significance of the ghats.
The opposition parties have been vocal in their criticism of the government, accusing it of being reckless and insensitive to the country’s cultural heritage. The alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue has been particularly contentious, with many seeing it as a symbol of the government’s disregard for history and culture.
Rani Ahilyabai Holkar was a prominent queen of the Holkar dynasty, known for her bravery and administrative skills. She played a significant role in the development of the region, and her legacy continues to be celebrated in the area. The statue, which was installed at the ghat, was seen as a tribute to her memory and a symbol of the region’s rich history.
The controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat has sparked a wider debate about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. While development and modernization are essential for the growth and progress of a city, it is equally important to ensure that the historical and cultural significance of the area is protected.
In recent years, there have been several instances of cultural heritage sites being destroyed or damaged, often due to neglect or lack of planning. The destruction of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the demolition of the ancient temples in Bhubaneswar, and the destruction of the historic havelis in Old Delhi are just a few examples of the many cultural heritage sites that have been lost or damaged over the years.
The controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. It highlights the need for careful planning and execution, ensuring that development and modernization are carried out in a way that respects and protects the historical and cultural significance of an area.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns of the opposition parties and the public. While the government has maintained that the renovation work is being carried out with utmost care, it is essential to ensure that the historical and cultural significance of the ghat is protected.
In conclusion, the controversy over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat has sparked a debate about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. While development and modernization are essential for the growth and progress of a city, it is equally important to ensure that the historical and cultural significance of an area is protected. The government must ensure that the renovation work is carried out with utmost care and respect for the cultural heritage of the ghat.
News Source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
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