The Uttar Pradesh Police have registered eight FIRs in Varanasi following the circulation of allegedly AI-generated images and misleading claims related to the ongoing redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat, one of Hinduism’s most sacred cremation sites.
According to officials, the cases have been filed against eight individuals and several X (formerly Twitter) handles accused of sharing fabricated visuals and false information about the beautification project. Authorities said the content was misleading and did not reflect the actual redevelopment work underway at the historic ghat.
Police Cite Misinformation and Attempt to Hurt Religious Sentiments
Deputy Commissioner of Police Gaurav Bansal said the FIRs were lodged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He stated that some of the circulated images were digitally altered and falsely linked to Hindu deities, with the intent to hurt religious sentiments, spread misinformation, provoke public anger, and disturb social harmony.
“The posts went beyond misinformation. Attempts were made to damage social harmony and create an anti-government mindset in society,” PTI quoted DCP Bansal as saying.
Police added that legal action would be taken not only against those who originally posted the content but also against users who reposted, amplified, or commented on the misleading material.
Opposition Leaders React Online
The controversy drew reactions from several opposition leaders. The Congress party’s official X handle shared a video featuring the alleged images, claiming that the redevelopment amounted to an erosion of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Similarly, NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule expressed concern over the reported alterations at the ghat. Tagging Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, she urged him to intervene and ensure that development work fully respects history, culture, and established procedures.
Yogi Adityanath Rejects Allegations, Calls It ‘False Propaganda’
Responding to the allegations, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath dismissed the claims as “false propaganda” and accused opposition parties of misleading the public.
“Kashi today is witnessing unprecedented development. Similar attempts were made earlier to spread misinformation by showing broken idols. The truth is now before everyone,” he said.
The chief minister highlighted the success of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, stating that daily footfall has increased from 10,000–15,000 devotees earlier to nearly 1–1.5 lakh now. He confirmed that redevelopment work is ongoing at Manikarnika Ghat and warned of strict action against anyone spreading misinformation on social media.
FIRs Filed After Contractor’s Complaint
The FIRs were registered following a complaint filed at the Chowk police station by Mano, a Tamil Nadu-based contractor whose firm has been engaged in strengthening cremation-related infrastructure and beautifying Manikarnika Ghat since November 15, 2025.
According to police, misleading and AI-generated images were shared on the night of January 16, which distorted facts, misled devotees, and triggered public resentment. The posts subsequently attracted objectionable comments and reposts, escalating tensions, officials said.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have indicated that further legal action may follow.
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