UP Congress Chief Ajay Rai Challenges CM Over Manikarnika

Varanasi: In the ongoing Manikarnika Ghat controversy, Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Rai on Thursday launched a sharp rebuttal against the claims made by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding the authenticity of viral AI-generated videos and images of alleged damage at the historic cremation ground.

Speaking to reporters in Varanasi, Rai accused the Chief Minister of lying about the facts surrounding the Manikarnika issue. He urged the state leadership to publicly showcase the idol of Ahilyabai Holkar, which has become the focal point of the controversy, if the government’s assertions are indeed true.

“If the Chief Minister is confident about his claims, then he should present the Ahilyabai Holkar idol at the centre of the controversy,” Rai said. “If he proves Congress wrong, we will publicly apologize to the people of Kashi.”

Faith and Public Trust at Stake

Ajay Rai further said that the matter goes beyond political rhetoric and now involves the faith of the people of Varanasi. He warned that if the Chief Minister fails to substantiate his claims, it would be up to the electorate of Varanasi to decide on the Chief Minister’s credibility and trustworthiness.

Rai’s comments come amid heightened political tension following the circulation of manipulated viral content and the subsequent police investigation. Authorities have been probing whether misleading images and videos were used to stir public sentiment against the ongoing Manikarnika Ghat beautification and development project.

Political Backlash and Public Debate

The Manikarnika controversy has triggered widespread debate across political and social circles, with opposition parties calling for transparency and accountability. Rai’s statement underscores the Congress party’s attempt to keep the issue in the spotlight and question the narrative put forward by the state government.

“As long as there is ambiguity about the facts, the people of Varanasi will continue to seek the truth,” he added.

Meanwhile, the administration continues its investigation into the viral posts, emphasizing that the inquiry aims to curb misinformation and maintain public order.