Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Protest Over Manikarnika Ghat Demolition
There was a big protest at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi because some people think the government is destroying the place's history by doing construction work.
Manikarnika Ghat is a very old and important place for Hindus, where people believe their loved ones can find peace after death.
The protesters, including a group called Pal Samaj Samiti and Congress leaders, say the government is ruining the original look of the ghat and damaging important idols.
But the government says they are just doing development work to make the place cleaner and better.
They even found some old idols and plan to put them back after the construction is done.
The government also thinks some outsiders might be causing trouble.
Congress leaders accused the government of wanting to erase historical heritage to put their own name on it, while officials say the project is for modernization and better management.
Protest erupted at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi over a demolition drive.
Locals, including members of Pal Samaj Samiti and Congress leaders, alleged heritage destruction and damage to idols.
District administration denied allegations, asserting redevelopment work for modernization and better sanitation.
Idols and artefacts found during excavation to be reinstalled post-construction.
Congress accused the government of erasing historical heritage to benefit business associates, while officials confirmed an inquiry into the demolition of a structure containing a statue.
- Who
- Locals, members of Pal Samaj Samiti, Congress leaders, Sanatan Rakshak Dal, and district administration officials
- What
- Protest against demolition and redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat
- When
- Tuesday
- Where
- Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi
- Why
- Protesters allege heritage destruction; officials claim redevelopment work
Protesters and Opposition
District Administration and BJP
Heritage Destruction
Protesters and Opposition
Protesters and Congress allege that the demolition is destroying centuries-old heritage and cultural identity.
District Administration and BJP
Officials claim the work is for redevelopment and improving sanitation, with artefacts to be reinstalled.
Intent Behind Demolition
Protesters and Opposition
Congress accuses the government of erasing historical heritage to affix Modi's name and benefiting business associates.
District Administration and BJP
Officials assert the project is for modernization and better space management, with no intent to harm heritage.
Handling of Idols
Protesters and Opposition
Protesters claim that consecrated idols, including that of Ahilyabai Holkar, were damaged without prior notice.
District Administration and BJP
Officials confirm an inquiry into the demolition of a structure containing a statue and assure artefacts will be reinstalled.
- Location
- Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi
- Date of Incident
- Tuesday
- Protesters
- Members of Pal Samaj Samiti, locals, Congress leaders, and Sanatan Rakshak Dal
- Official Response
- Denied allegations of temple demolition, cited redevelopment work, and assured artefacts will be reinstalled
- Artifacts Found
- Idols and artefacts discovered during excavation, to be reinstalled
- Project Objective
- Modernization, improving sanitation, and space management
- Project Completion
- Expected by the end of the year
- Project Initiator
- Corporate social responsibility initiative of a private company
Sources
Protest erupts against demolition drive at Manikarnika Ghat
Indore News: Yuvraj Yeshwantrao Holkar Visits Varanasi, Meets Officials & Demands Inquiry Into Demolition Of Manikarnika Ghat Temple Restored By Ahilyabai-- VIDEO
Cultural heritage of Varanasi destroyed, Congress cries over bulldozers at Manikarnika Ghat
Want to affix your nameplate: Kharge to PM on Manikarnika Ghat redevelopment
