Summary: The Manikarnika Ghat demolition protest refers to the widespread backlash and demonstrations that erupted in Varanasi (Kashi) after local heritage structures and a historic statue were allegedly demolished as part of a redevelopment project. The controversy has drawn criticism from citizens, cultural groups, and political parties — particularly the Congress — who claim that sacred heritage is being destroyed in the name of modernisation. Administrators, meanwhile, say the demolition was part of planned redevelopment and that no temple was harmed.
What Is the Manikarnika Ghat Demolition Protest?
The Manikarnika Ghat demolition protest began on January 13–14, 2026, when locals and community groups in Kashi reacted strongly to the demolition of certain heritage structures at the historic Manikarnika Ghat — one of Hinduism’s most sacred cremation grounds. Videos and images circulating on social media showed heavy machinery dismantling parts of the old stone platform, leading protesters to allege that consecrated idols and historic elements, including a statue associated with Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, were destroyed during the renewal work.
Protesters, led by Mahendra Pal Pintu — national president of the Pal Samaj Samiti — and supported by various local groups and Marathi community members, gathered at the site demanding accountability, reinstallation of the idols, and an immediate halt to the demolition activity.
Why Did the Protest Happen?
Heritage vs Development: The Central Issue
At the heart of the unrest is a fundamental disagreement about heritage and modernisation. Manikarnika Ghat is believed to grant “moksha” — liberation from the cycle of birth and death — and has immense cultural and religious significance. Structures within the ghat, including century-old stone platforms and artwork, are viewed as living heritage by locals and devotees.
Protesters claim that demolition in the name of redevelopment has damaged or destroyed significant heritage elements without proper consultation or notice. In particular, the alleged razing of a structure housing a statue linked to Ahilyabai Holkar — the 18th-century queen credited with restoring the Kashi Vishwanath Temple — heightened sentiments and drew attention from heritage activists beyond Uttar Pradesh.
Administration’s Rationale
The district administration, represented by officials including District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Alok Verma, stated that the demolition is part of an ongoing plan to modernise and improve sanitation, access, and space management at the ghat — which handles a very high number of daily cremations. Administrators also maintained that no temple was damaged and that any idols or artefacts recovered during excavation were preserved and will be reinstalled once construction is complete. They described much of the uproar as based on confusion or misinformation about the redevelopment work.
Social Reaction to the Demolition
The Manikarnika Ghat demolition protest has sparked strong reactions across various sections of society — from local citizens and heritage communities to wider civic groups. Many residents voiced deep hurt over the perceived disrespect of sacred spaces. Videos of the demolition and images of rubble circulating online fuelled criticism and mobilised protests not only in Varanasi but in other parts of India, including Indore — historically linked to Ahilyabai Holkar.
Social media discourse reflects a divided response. Some commentators argue that modernisation and improved infrastructure are necessary to address longstanding sanitation and safety issues at the ghat. Others feel that such development should be executed without eroding the historical character and cultural soul of Kashi.
Cultural trusts and organisations, such as the Khasgi Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Charities Trust based in Indore, condemned the demolition as an insult to cultural heritage and demanded a full investigation and immediate restoration of any damaged artefacts.
Congress Reaction: Clear Opposition and Criticism
The Congress party has been one of the most vocal political voices against the demolition. Ajay Rai, president of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee, strongly criticised the redevelopment work, describing it as “an attack on the soul of Kashi and Sanatan culture.” He accused the BJP-led government of eroding historical heritage under the cover of development and demanded that all such projects harming the city’s legacy be halted immediately.
In Indore, City Congress leaders staged a protest against the demolition, framing it as a direct affront to India’s heritage and Sanatan faith. The demonstrators — led by local party figures — called for an immediate cessation of demolition works, accountability for those responsible, and protection of historic sites in Varanasi. They argued that Manikarnika Ghat is a symbol of faith, culture, and tradition that should not be compromised.
Congress statements have also tied the controversy to broader political narratives, asserting that heritage erosion underlies a larger pattern of neglect or mismanagement of India’s historic monuments by the ruling party in the region.
Political and Cultural Stakes
The backlash over the Manikarnika Ghat demolition protest highlights how deeply intertwined cultural heritage, religion, urban development, and politics are in India’s oldest living city. For many, the ghat is more than a physical location — it represents centuries of tradition, faith, and collective memory. The controversy underscores the delicate balance between preserving that legacy and undertaking necessary infrastructure improvements for contemporary needs.
As debates continue and the investigation ordered by the administration progresses, the protest has already ignited broader national conversations about heritage conservation, community consultation in redevelopment work, and the role of political parties in protecting cultural identity.
Source
New Indian Express
Times of India
Free Press Journal
Dainik Jagran