Speaking to reporters in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the UP government wants to “destroy heritage and history”. He said, “Probably nowhere in the world does it happen that someone destroys their old things. It is unfortunate that there is a government that wants to destroy heritage, history – those who talk about religion and Sanatan, they should preserve it, make history even better, and not destroy it.”
Akhilesh Yadav was in Bhubaneswar to attend the Vision India Holistic Health Summit. The incident occurred amid the controversy over the ongoing demolition drive in Varanasi. Heavy machinery and bulldozers were used to remove encroachments and old buildings. Many ancient sculptures and artefacts were found during this expedition. Local officials say that these have been secured by the Culture Department for reinstallation after construction.
Local people and priests have expressed concern that modern construction could alter the ancient spiritual character of the ghat. Congress and Samajwadi Party have also criticized the campaign, accusing it of damaging heritage including the statue of Ahilyabai Holkar. However, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the ongoing development work at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats in Varanasi. Speaking to the media, he highlighted the challenges associated with cremation at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi and emphasized that cremation is a sacred ritual that requires respect and hygiene.
He stressed the difficulties of cremation during the monsoon season, including half-burnt bodies, pollution, and the struggle to maintain dignity and environmental safety during the cremation process.
The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh said, “Manikarnika Ghat and Maharaja Harishchandra Ghat are the two main ghats where cremation is performed. You can see the process of cremation at Manikarnika Ghat. Cremation is one of the 16 rituals of Sanatan Dharma and it should be performed respectfully and in a clean environment.” Adityanath further said that this project of the government aims to modernize the facilities while maintaining the tradition.
He further said, “The government is committed to assist in the smooth conduct of these rituals, and hence some projects have been initiated. Cremations become very difficult during the monsoon season, and sometimes bodies remain half-burned; imagine what the bereaved families have to endure…” He also assured support to the people of the Dom community, who have been performing the rituals for thousands of years, so that they can continue the traditions smoothly.
The plan for the renovation and redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat was launched with the laying of the foundation stone by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 7, 2023. The total restoration cost of this project is expected to be approximately Rs 17.56 crore.
The master plan of the administration aims to streamline and expand the area from Manikarnika Ghat to Scindia Ghat. This includes better facilities for pilgrims visiting the ghats, easy access and seating arrangements for those coming for cremation, and strengthening of connectivity to Scindia Ghat.
There will be VIP seating arrangement on the terrace in the new Manikarnika Ghat. Apart from this, special attention will be given to ramps, darshan areas, seating arrangements and other basic facilities. A wooden plaza will also be built at Manikarnika Ghat, where bereaved people will be able to buy wood for the last rites.
It is noteworthy that the great cremation ground of Kashi, Manikarnika Ghat, holds immense religious significance. This is the only cremation ground in the world where pyres keep burning 24 hours, that is why it is known as Mahashamshan (Great Cremation Ground). People from all over the world come to visit this holy place.