In a heated political exchange, BJP leader SP Singh Baghel has accused Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav of spreading false information about the ongoing developments at Varanasi’s sacred Manikarnika Ghat. Baghel’s sharp rebuttal came during a press conference where he dismantled Yadav’s recent claims point by point.
Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most revered cremation sites on the Ganges, has been under scrutiny amid urban development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and sanitation. Akhilesh Yadav alleged mismanagement and neglect by the current administration, claiming the ghat’s condition has deteriorated drastically.
SP Singh Baghel countered these assertions with official data and on-ground evidence. ‘Akhilesh ji is resorting to blatant lies to score political points,’ Baghel stated emphatically. He highlighted recent investments exceeding Rs 50 crore for ghat beautification, electric crematorium upgrades, and flood mitigation measures. Satellite images and progress reports were presented to show substantial advancements since the BJP came to power.
The controversy underscores the intense rivalry ahead of upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh. Baghel urged Yadav to visit the site personally rather than relying on outdated or fabricated narratives. Local residents and priests echoed Baghel’s sentiments, praising the tangible improvements in accessibility and hygiene.
As the debate rages on social media and news channels, this clash highlights deeper issues of political accountability and truthful discourse in Indian politics. With Varanasi holding symbolic importance for the BJP, such accusations are unlikely to fade quietly.