Manikarnika Ghat row explained: Truth behind temple demolition claims and why tensions rose in Varanasi

• Redevelopment at Manikarnika Ghat continues amid protests and controversy
• Police security increased after false claims of idol demolition spread online
• Authorities deny temple damage; idols preserved for respectful reinstallation.

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Rejuvenation and redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi continued on Tuesday despite a week of protests and controversy. The ghat, one of the most sacred cremation sites in India, has been undergoing a major beautification and strengthening project.

Read:  Why Pappu Yadav, Sanjay Singh were named in FIR?

Amid rising tensions, police security has been increased in and around the area to prevent protests or unrest. Authorities said the work is progressing as planned while law enforcement keeps a close watch on the situation.

?? Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi. One of Hinduism’s most sacred sites, revered for centuries and deeply associated with the legacy of Ahilyadevi Holkar, is witnessing the destruction of ancient idols and temples in the name of development. After the large-scale demolition carried… pic.twitter.com/XMvo0EtN0P

— Dr Syed Naseer Hussain, M P (@NasirHussainINC) January 15, 2026

Why has police security been tightened?

Security was strengthened after several misleading photos and claims began circulating on social media, alleging that temples and idols were demolished during the redevelopment work.

Police have registered FIRs against eight individuals for allegedly spreading false and inflammatory information.

Those named include Ashutosh Pontis, AAP leader Sanjay Singh, Pappu Yadav, Congress leaders Jasvinder Kaur and Praganya Gupta, along with Manish Singh, Ritu Rathaur and Sandip Dev. They have been booked under sections related to promoting enmity, hurting religious sentiments and spreading rumours. Police have issued notices to the accused and are waiting for their response.

What triggered the controversy?

The controversy began after heavy machinery was used to clear encroachments and old structures at Manikarnika Ghat as part of the redevelopment drive.

During the process, some ancient idols and artefacts were reportedly found at the site. Soon after, images and posts started circulating online claiming that temples, statues and idols, including one linked to Ahilyadevi Holkar, were damaged or demolished.

Members of the Ahilyabai Holkar family and the Pal community raised objections, saying idols associated with their traditions were affected. These claims were later escalated by opposition leaders.

What have authorities and the government said?

The Uttar Pradesh government has strongly denied the allegations. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said claims of temples or idols being demolished were “completely false” and accused certain groups of deliberately spreading misinformation.

He said several viral images were either misleading or created using artificial intelligence. “No temple or idol has been demolished at Manikarnika Ghat,” the CM said.

Varanasi District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar clarified that only one madhi (platform) was removed during construction. He acknowledged that some idols placed on the structure fell during the work, but said none were damaged.

All idols have been safely preserved and moved to the Archaeology Department’s office. “Once the redevelopment work is complete, the idols will be reinstalled with full respect,” he said.

Commissioner of Police Mohit Agrawal warned that those behind the circulation of fake and AI-generated images must appear before the police within 72 hours of receiving notices. If they fail to do so, it would be treated as acceptance of guilt and further legal action would follow.

Why is a new Manikarnika Tirtha being built?

The Manikarnika Tirtha redevelopment project aims to modernise and expand cremation facilities while preserving the ghat’s spiritual significance. The initial phase covers around 3,000 square metres, with plans to expand to a 39,350-square-metre platform, making it the largest dedicated cremation facility at the ghat.

Once completed in four phases, the site will allow 19 cremations to take place at the same time and include better sanitation, seating areas and public utilities.

The project was proposed after Vishwanath Chaudhary, the Dom Raja of Manikarnika, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to modernise the ghat following the Kashi Corridor project.

He had highlighted problems like congestion, narrow lanes, poor sanitation and lack of space for mourners, especially during monsoons.

Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for the project in 2023. It is being funded by the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust and implemented by the Roop Foundation. Project officials say the finished site will blend modern facilities with the ghat’s traditional and spiritual character.