AI Images Trigger Row Over Manikarnika Ghat Redevelopment, 8 FIRs Filed in Varanasi

Varanasi | January 18, 2026 A major controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi after alleged AI-generated images and misleading claims about the redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat surfaced on social media. Police officials confirmed that eight FIRs have been registered against individuals and certain X (formerly Twitter) handles accused of spreading fake visuals and false information about the ongoing beautification work at the historic cremation ghat. According to the police, the circulated images did not match the actual work being carried out at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. Deputy Commissioner of Police Gaurav Bansal said the cases were filed under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Authorities alleged that some of the visuals were deliberately linked to Hindu deities to hurt religious sentiments, spread misinformation, provoke public anger, and disturb social harmony. The issue also drew political reactions, with opposition leaders sharing the disputed images online. The Congress party posted a video claiming that the redevelopment was damaging India’s cultural identity, while NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule expressed concern over possible changes to the heritage site and urged Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to intervene and ensure that development respects history and tradition. Responding to the allegations, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath dismissed the claims as “false propaganda” and accused opposition parties of misleading the public. He said Kashi is witnessing unprecedented development and that similar attempts to spread misinformation had been made earlier as well. The FIRs were filed following a complaint by a contractor involved in the project, who alleged that the AI-generated images shared on January 16 misled devotees and created tension in society. Police said strict action will be taken against all those involved in spreading such AI Images Spark Controversy Over Manikarnika Ghat Revamp, 8 FIRs Registered A fresh controversy has surfaced in Varanasi after misleading and alleged AI-generated images related to the redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat went viral on social media. Police have registered eight FIRs against several individuals and X handles for spreading false claims about the work underway at the sacred cremation site. Officials said the images shared online did not reflect the actual situation on the ground. According to the police, some visuals were deliberately linked to Hindu deities to hurt religious feelings, create public anger, and disturb social harmony. Legal action is being taken not only against those who posted the content but also against people who shared and commented on it. The issue quickly turned political, with opposition leaders raising concerns online. The Congress accused the government of damaging cultural heritage, while NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule urged the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that development work respects tradition and history. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath rejected the allegations, calling them false and misleading. He said Kashi is undergoing historic development and warned that strict action will be taken against anyone trying to spread misinformation on social media.