Broken idols brought from outside: UP CM Yogi amid row over Manikarnika Ghat renovation
The recent redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi has sparked a controversy, with allegations of destruction of idols and statues. The issue has taken a political turn, with opposition parties attacking the government over the alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue. 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.
According to CM Yogi, the allegations of demolition of idols are baseless and a conspiracy to defame the country’s rich cultural heritage. “It is being claimed that idols are being demolished. There cannot be a bigger lie than this,” he said. The Chief Minister’s statement comes amid a row over the renovation of Manikarnika Ghat, which is a sacred site for Hindus. The ghat is one of the most revered places in Varanasi, where thousands of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges River.
The controversy began when reports emerged that several idols and statues, including the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue, were destroyed during the renovation work. The opposition parties were quick to attack the government, accusing it of being insensitive to the country’s cultural heritage. The Samajwadi Party and the Congress Party were among the first to condemn the alleged destruction of the statue, demanding that the government take action against those responsible.
However, the UP CM has denied these allegations, saying that the broken idols were brought from outside to create a false narrative. “Some people are trying to create a false narrative by bringing broken idols from outside and claiming that they are being demolished,” he said. The Chief Minister’s statement has sparked a debate, with many questioning the authenticity of the allegations.
The redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat is part of the larger plan to revamp the city’s infrastructure and promote tourism. The project aims to provide better facilities to devotees and improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the ghat. However, the controversy over the alleged destruction of idols has put a question mark on the project, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
The Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue, which is at the center of the controversy, is a revered figure in Indian history. She was a brave queen who ruled the Malwa kingdom in the 18th century and was known for her wisdom and courage. The statue was erected in her honor, and its alleged destruction has sparked outrage among the people.
The opposition parties have been quick to capitalize on the issue, accusing the government of being insensitive to the country’s cultural heritage. “The destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue is a shameful act, and the government must take action against those responsible,” said a spokesperson for the Samajwadi Party.
However, the UP CM has maintained that the allegations are baseless and a conspiracy to defame the government. “We respect our cultural heritage and will not allow anyone to destroy it,” he said. The Chief Minister’s statement has been supported by many, who believe that the allegations are a part of a larger conspiracy to malign the government.
As the controversy continues to rage, the people of Varanasi are watching with bated breath. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, and any attempt to destroy it will be met with resistance. The government must ensure that the redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat is done in a way that respects the city’s cultural heritage and does not harm the sentiments of the people.
In conclusion, the controversy over the redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat has taken a political turn, with the opposition parties attacking the government over the alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue. However, the UP CM has denied these allegations, saying that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage. As the debate continues, it is essential to ensure that the truth is revealed and the cultural heritage of the city is protected.
News source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
About the Author
