Sparks fly in UP politics as Congress MP Imran Masood brands the Yogi government’s Manikarnika Ghat activities a ruthless blow to religious fervor. From Saharanpur, Masood painted a picture of wounded piety, with sacred structures in Varanasi facing the wrecking ball.
Key flashpoints include the demolition of a Lord Shiva temple and the forcible removal of a Hanuman idol via tractor, visuals from Ahilyabai Holkar Trust fueling public anger. ‘This isn’t progress; it’s profanation of our core beliefs,’ the MP asserted.
Masood wove in broader grievances – police hauling Bareilly worshippers to prison mid-prayer, Delhi’s ancient shrine felled for RSS lot. ‘Does BJP derive joy from such sacrilege?’ he taunted, quoting stats of unprecedented temple losses and property grabs under their regime. Debate invitation extended.
UP Congress ratcheted up pressure on the CM: If idol damage is AI trickery, show irrefutable proof. Where’s the statue today? Admissions from own ranks clash with denials, tainting credibility.
Kashi’s eternal flames flicker amid strife, spotlighting tensions between urban renewal and tradition. This saga tests the BJP’s balancing act on devotion and governance, with opposition seizing the moment to rally the faithful base.