Online Desk: Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the BJP, accusing it of altering and damaging prominent Hindu religious sites under the guise of development and tourism. Rai alleged that the BJP, which came to power invoking Hindutva, is instead “destroying” the sacred cultural and spiritual fabric of ancient cities like Varanasi, Vrindavan, and Mirzapur.
Rai claimed that in the name of constructing the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, hundreds of Shivlings and ancient temples were demolished, and even a sacred banyan tree was cut down. “Varanasi’s original form has been ruined,” he said, pointing out that ancient cities worldwide—such as Egypt and Venice—have preserved their heritage, unlike what is happening under BJP rule.
He further criticized the BJP over the consecration ceremonies at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, questioning the need for multiple rounds of Pran Pratishtha, which he suggested was a deviation from traditional practices.
Rai warned that the Vindhyavasini Devi temple in Mirzapur and the holy town of Vrindavan are now under threat. He alleged that the government is attempting to transform these sacred places into tourist hubs or picnic spots, disregarding their religious sanctity.
Tirtha Purohit Sohanlal Mishra, a traditional priest of Vrindavan, supported Rai’s claims, saying that 285 families associated with Thakurji’s temple are facing displacement. “Even during Aurangzeb’s time, such atrocities weren’t seen,” he said, accusing authorities of demolishing homes and temples.
Another local, Deepak Parashar, questioned the rationale behind demolishing 150 temples when alternative land near the Banke Bihari temple remains unused.
Rai concluded by pledging full support to the residents and spiritual caretakers of Vrindavan.
