Broken idols brought from outside: UP CM Yogi amid row over Manikarnika Ghat renovation
The recent renovation of the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi has sparked a heated controversy, with allegations of destruction of idols and heritage sites. Amidst the row, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has claimed that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage. The CM’s statement has further fueled the debate, with opposition parties attacking the government over the alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue.
The Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred ghats in Varanasi, has been undergoing redevelopment as part of the government’s efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure and boost tourism. However, the renovation project has been marred by controversy, with locals and opposition parties alleging that the government is destroying the ghat’s heritage and cultural significance.
At the center of the controversy is the alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue, which was located at the ghat. Opposition parties have accused the government of deliberately demolishing the statue, which is considered a significant part of the city’s cultural heritage. The statue was erected in honor of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, a renowned queen of the Malwa kingdom who was known for her philanthropic work and contributions to the city of Varanasi.
However, CM Yogi Adityanath has dismissed the allegations, claiming that the opposition is spreading false information to malign the government. “It is being claimed that idols are being demolished. There cannot be a bigger lie than this,” he said. The CM further alleged that broken idols were brought from outside to create a false narrative about the government’s intentions.
The opposition has been quick to respond to the CM’s statement, with many leaders accusing the government of trying to cover up its own failures. “The CM’s statement is a clear attempt to divert attention from the government’s misdeeds,” said a senior opposition leader. “The fact remains that the government has destroyed the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue, and it is trying to justify its actions by spreading false information.”
The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the government’s approach to heritage conservation and redevelopment. Many experts and activists have argued that the government’s efforts to redevelop the city’s infrastructure have been marred by a lack of sensitivity towards the city’s cultural and historical significance.
“The government’s approach to heritage conservation is short-sighted and lacking in vision,” said a heritage conservation expert. “The redevelopment of the Manikarnika Ghat is a classic example of how the government is prioritizing infrastructure development over cultural heritage.”
The controversy has also highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the government’s decision-making process. Many have argued that the government should have consulted with local stakeholders and experts before embarking on the redevelopment project.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the opposition’s allegations. The CM’s statement has further polarized the debate, with many opposition leaders calling for a thorough investigation into the alleged destruction of the Rani Ahilyabai Holkar statue.
In conclusion, the controversy over the Manikarnika Ghat renovation has sparked a heated debate about the government’s approach to heritage conservation and redevelopment. While the government has claimed that broken idols were brought from outside to malign India’s heritage, the opposition has accused the government of deliberately destroying the city’s cultural heritage. As the debate continues, it is essential to prioritize transparency, accountability, and sensitivity towards the city’s cultural and historical significance.
Source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2012458022187192360
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