Kharge Slams PM Modi Over Manikarnika Ghat Redevelopment, Alleges Heritage Demolition

• Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused PM Modi of demolishing ancient heritage at Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi, to affix his own nameplate.
• Kharge stated that the redevelopment, under the guise of renovation, destroyed rare ancient heritage described in the Gupta period and restored by Ahilyabai Holkar.
• Protestors opposed the demolition drive, alleging damage to a century-old idol of Ahilyabai Holkar, a claim refuted by the District Magistrate.
• The District Magistrate clarified that artifacts were secured and would be reinstalled, with the revamp aiming to improve sanitation and space management.
• Kharge questioned the necessity of demolishing heritage for renovation and accused the government of betraying the faith of devotees and commercializing cultural sites.

Why It Matters: Kharge criticizes PM Modi for allegedly demolishing ancient heritage at Manikarnika Ghat for personal branding.