Varanasi Police Issues Stern Warning in Fake Temple Photo Case
Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal delivered a strong message on Monday. He warned that individuals behind fake and AI-generated photos showing temple demolition at Manikarnika Ghat must appear before authorities within 72 hours of receiving notices. Failure to comply will be treated as an admission of guilt, leading to further legal action.
Police Inspection Reveals Truth
The Commissioner issued this warning after personally inspecting the Kumbha Mahadev temple inside Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Manikarnika Ghat. His visit followed high-voltage drama at the location. Pal Samaj activists attempted to stage a demonstration against alleged desecration of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar's idol. Their protest was based on misleading information.
"I am standing at the same temple where no work has been done recently," stated Commissioner Agrawal during his inspection. "The temple remains completely safe. Regular puja and religious rituals continue uninterrupted, just like all other temples within KV Dham."
FIR Registered Against Eight Individuals
Police have filed an FIR based on complaints from the project manager of the ghat rejuvenation company and an additional municipal commissioner. The case names eight individuals:
- Ashutosh Pontis
- Sanjay Singh of AAP
- Pappu Yadav
- Jasvinder Kaur of Congress
- Praganya Gupta
- Manish Singh
- Ritu Rathaur
- Sandip Dev
Charges include promoting enmity, destroying places of worship, malicious attempt to outrage religious sentiments, and rumor mongering under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Chowk police station handles the investigation.
Fake Images Spread Misinformation
Investigators confirmed on Sunday that images of Kumbha Mahadev temple inside KV Dham were falsely presented as Manikarnika Ghat demolition photos. Notices have already been served to all eight accused.
The Commissioner explained that FIRs were registered on Saturday after posts and reposts on X handles spread rumors about temple and idol desecration. These posts contained fake AI-generated images of Kumbha Mahadev temple, which actually stands safely inside KV Dham, not at Manikarnika Ghat.
Police Investigation Uncovers Pattern
When police began investigating the FIRs, they discovered similar photos being posted and reposted across social media platforms. After confirming that fake AI-generated photos misled people and hurt religious sentiments, authorities issued notices to all eight accused.
"If they do not appear, it will be considered that they confessed their crime," emphasized Commissioner Agrawal. "Further criminal procedure will begin after forwarding the report to court."
Equal Treatment Under Law
Regarding FIRs against politicians including AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and Congress's Pappu Yadav, Agrawal stated clearly: "The law is equal for everyone in this country." He noted that arrests become possible only after charges are framed in court and warrants issued.
Maintaining law and order remains the top priority for Varanasi police. "No one will be allowed to disturb social harmony by spreading rumors," asserted the Commissioner.
Examining Motivations Behind Fake Posts
Police are investigating why these fake posts were shared. They want to determine whether this was a conspiracy or an attempt to stir emotions for political gain. Agrawal indicated that if investigation reveals any conspiracy, additional charges will be added to the case.
Regarding viral videos showing structures with idols being broken, the Commissioner confirmed investigations are progressing. Police will cover every point thoroughly.
Social Media Monitoring Shows Deletions
The cyber crime cell monitoring social media noticed many viral misleading posts being deleted. This happened either due to fear of legal action or after people learned the truth. Commissioner Agrawal appealed to the public: "Please verify content reality before posting anything."
Protest Drama at Manikarnika Ghat
Before the Commissioner reached KV Dham, dramatic scenes unfolded on the Manikarnika Ghat route. Scores of Pal Samaj members attempted to march toward the ghat amid loud sloganeering. They wanted to protest alleged idol desecration of Ahilyabai Holkar.
Officials leading a heavy police force tried convincing protesters to stop and return, considering the sensitivity of the cremation ghat. However, many protesters pushed police officers and tore some uniforms. Police then used canes to disperse the gathering.
ACP Dashaswamedh Atul Anjan Tripathi reported that 17 protesters were taken to Chowk police station. Authorities released them after some time.
