Varanasi Municipal Corporation Launches Investigation into Manikarnika Ghat Demolition
The Varanasi Municipal Corporation has initiated a formal investigation. This probe aims to determine whether any negligence occurred during the demolition of the 'madhi' platform at Manikarnika Ghat. The platform contained idols of the 18th-century queen Ahilyabai Holkar and other historical figures carved into its stone walls.
Political Accusations and Government Response
Several activists and opposition party members have leveled serious accusations against the government. They claim negligence directly caused damage to the revered Ahilyabai idols. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath traveled to Varanasi on Saturday to address these allegations head-on.
During a press conference, CM Yogi Adityanath firmly asserted that no idols suffered any damage during the ongoing renovation work. He inspected the site personally to verify their condition.
Official Statements and Preservation Efforts
Divisional Commissioner S Rajaligam provided detailed information about the process. He told TOI that the state archaeology department received clear instructions to preserve all idols on the stone walls before any demolition started.
"All idols and artefacts slated for preservation were documented before demolition began at the project site," Rajaligam stated. "The VMC's probe will find out whether precautionary actions were taken before the demolition."
He further explained that the future course of action, including holding individuals accountable, will depend entirely on the findings of the VMC's investigation report.
Trust Expresses Displeasure Over Demolition
The Khasgi Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Charities Trust has voiced strong dissatisfaction. The trust, which now worships Queen Ahilyabai's preserved idol at the Gurudham temple, criticized the demolition carried out on January 10.
Trust representatives stated the demolition proceeded without any prior notice or warning to them, causing significant concern.
Political Confrontation Escalates
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp political attack during his statements. He accused the Congress party of orchestrating a plot to tarnish the image of Kashi (Varanasi).
Yogi alleged the party used fake images to mislead the public, drawing a parallel to similar tactics he claims were employed during the Kashi Vishwanath Dham rejuvenation project.
Opposition Leaders Rally Against Government
Key opposition figures have united in their criticism. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, UP Congress Committee president Ajay Rai, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav have all publicly condemned the actions.
They opened a coordinated front against the BJP-led governments at both the central and state levels. Their criticism focused on the images emerging from the demolition site at the historic Manikarnika Ghat.
