In Varanasi, police have filed an FIR against eight individuals accused of disseminating allegedly fake and misleading content on social media concerning the redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat. Among the accused are Aam Aadmi Party's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and Congress leader Pappu Yadav.
Who Are the Accused?
According to the police, those facing charges include Sanjay Singh, Congress leader Pappu Yadav, and Jaswinder Kaur. Actions are also being taken against some accounts on X.
The Religious Significance of Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most ancient and sacred cremation ghats in Hinduism. It is believed that being cremated here leads to salvation, which adds immense religious and cultural importance to the ghat.
Accusations of AI-Generated Images and Videos
According to the police, AI-generated images, videos, and misleading information were shared on the social media platform X. The intent, they claim, was to hurt religious sentiments, spread misinformation, incite the public, and disturb social harmony.
Legal Charges Filed
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Gaurav Bansal stated that cases have been registered under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in eight separate incidents, all related to the beautification and strengthening of cremation facilities at Manikarnika Ghat.
What Did Sanjay Singh Say?
Responding to the FIR, Sanjay Singh alleged that the redevelopment has caused damage to Manikarnika Ghat. He claimed that temples were harmed and the statue of Ahilyabai Holkar was damaged. He stated that he was being targeted for speaking out and that he would not be intimidated.
Administration Denies Allegations
Protests have also arisen regarding the alleged demolition in the redevelopment project. However, the district administration dismissed the claims about damage to the centuries-old statue of Ahilyabai Holkar.
Findings of the Investigation
ACP Atul Anjan Tripathi revealed that the investigation uncovered a fake video created with AI, which was subsequently made viral. Additionally, AI-generated images were circulated, which spread confusion and dissatisfaction among the people.
Organized Disinformation Campaign
The police claim it was an organized effort, not only to post content but to repost it with contentious remarks.
Who is the Complainant?
The complaint was lodged by Mano from Tamil Nadu. Their company has been involved in strengthening cremation facilities and beautification at Manikarnika Ghat since November 15.
Creating an Anti-Government Environment
DCP Gaurav Bansal stated that false information was used to hurt religious sentiments and create an anti-government atmosphere. Legal actions are being taken against the relevant social media handles and those spreading the content.
Opposition Attacks Government
Opposition parties, including Congress, have accused the Yogi-Modi government of destroying Varanasi's heritage. They have demanded an immediate halt to all activities at Manikarnika Ghat and that future actions be taken only after consultation with religious leaders.
