Congress Stages Protest in Prayagraj Over Magh Mela and Varanasi Issues
Congress functionaries and workers staged a demonstration at the district collectorate campus in Prayagraj on Monday. The protest followed a call from the state Congress leadership. Party members voiced strong accusations against local authorities.
Allegations Against Magh Mela Police and Administration
The protesters claimed the Magh Mela police and administration denied permission to Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand. This denial occurred on the occasion of the Mauni Amavasya snan by palki. Congress workers also accused the police of manhandling the Shankaracharya's followers and other sadhus-saints at the ongoing Magh Mela.
Criticism of Varanasi Development Projects
Congress members further criticized the Varanasi district administration. They alleged the administration is destroying the culture of Varanasi in the name of developing Manikarnika Ghat. The party functionaries asserted the state government, under the guise of development, is harming faith, history, and culture in Varanasi.
They emphasized that Varanasi represents a living culture for crores of Sanatan believers. The protesters expressed deep concern over what they called planned destruction in the name of development.
Specific Accusations Regarding Religious Sites
The Congress workers made several specific allegations. They said temples and historical religious sites faced demolition during the Kashi Vishwanath corridor project. Now, they claim idols of deities, temples, and religious symbols are being damaged at Manikarnika Ghat.
Demands and Future Actions
During the protest, Congress representatives submitted a memorandum addressed to the Governor through district authorities. The memorandum demands a high-level probe into the Shankaracharya issue.
The party also called for the immediate formation of a joint delegation. This delegation would aim to uncover the truth of the entire matter. Congress insists action should be taken against the culprits.
Congress leaders issued a warning. If the Varanasi district administration does not address this serious issue soon, the party will launch a democratic and peaceful movement.
Prominent Participants
Several notable leaders joined the demonstration. Key participants included Kishore Varshney, Mukund Tiwari, Haseeb Ahmed, and Fuzail Hashmi. Their presence underscored the party's commitment to the protest.
