Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat Row: Political Tensions Erupt Over Corridor Project Claims

This news bulletin examines the escalating controversy at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, one of Hinduism's most revered cremation grounds. The dispute intensified after the removal of a raised platform during the Manikarnika Teerth Corridor project, prompting viral images and accusations that temples and sacred idols were being demolished. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally inspected the site, rejected all claims as false, and alleged that viral visuals were misleading or AI-generated. Opposition leaders Akhilesh Yadav and Congress countered by criticising the government's approach, alleging harm to heritage and Sanatan traditions. Protests and police detentions further highlighted the charged political atmosphere.