Spokespersons: Shri Ajay Rai and Shri Abhay Dubey: Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai and the Party’s national media coordinator Abhay Dubey, during a press conference, said ancient temples were being demolished and historical ghats damaged in Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shri Ajay Rai termed the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor a “mall”, saying several ancient temples were demolished and the sacred ‘Akshaya Vat’ tree was destroyed during its construction. He mentioned the demolition of Mukteshwar Mahadev temple and the Lakshmi Narayan temple built with Kasauti stone, and raised questions over the disappearance of ancient idols. He further alleged that in the name of beautification of Manikarnika Ghat, the work for which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in 2023, the ghat has been completely destroyed.

He also questioned the government on the cleanliness of the holy river Ganga, alleging that sewage from cruise vessels operating on the river is being discharged into it. He termed the naming of a cruise ship after Swami Vivekananda as insulting when it is indulging in polluting the holy river.

The Congress leaders demanded that all ongoing work at Manikarnika Ghat be stopped immediately, that further plans be made in consultation with the religious leaders of Kashi, that the Daal Mandi area be protected, and that a comprehensive rehabilitation plan be ensured for the affected traders and residents. Friday January 16, 2026