Sanjay Singh, Pappu Yadav booked for posting ‘fake’ Varanasi ghat images

The ghat is among the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds in Hinduism. It is believed that getting cremated at the site helps one achieve 'moksha' — liberation from the cycle of birth and death — giving the ghat immense religious and cultural importance.

Reacting to the FIR against him, Sanjay Singh claimed the redevelopment work had caused destruction at Manikarnika Ghat. Temples were damaged and a statue of Ahilyabai Holkar was broken, drawing protests from sadhus and others, he alleged.

The AAP MP accused the authorities of targeting him for raising the issue and asserted that he would not be intimidated.

There have been protests against a demolition drive under the redevelopment plan of the ghat, with many alleging that a century-old idol of Ahilyabai Holkar had been damaged, a charge refuted by the district administration.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Gaurav Bansal said the eight cases had been lodged against eight individuals and certain X handles for spreading fabricated content related to the ongoing work at the ghat.

According to the police, fake and misleading videos and AI-generated images, allegedly linked to Hindu deities, were circulated on X with the intent to hurt religious sentiments, spread misinformation, provoke public anger and disturb social harmony.