Eight First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, against individuals accused of circulating alleged AI-generated images and spreading misleading claims about the ongoing redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat, one of Hinduism's most sacred cremation sites. The cases were lodged following a complaint by Mano, a contractor whose company is involved in the beautification and strengthening of cremation facilities at the ghat since November 15, 2025. According to police officials, the images shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) were "contrary to the actual facts" of the redevelopment. Deputy Commissioner of Police Gaurav Bansal stated that the FIRs were registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Officials alleged that some of the circulated visuals, linked to Hindu deities, were shared with the intent to hurt religious sentiments, spread misinformation, provoke public anger, and disturb social harmony, and also to create an anti-government mindset. Legal action is being taken not only against the original X handle users but also against those who reposted and commented on the content. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the controversy, accusing the Congress and its allies of attempting to mislead the public through "false propaganda" and "blatant lies." He asserted that no temple was damaged during the renovation and that similar attempts to spread negativity occurred during the Kashi Vishwanath Dham construction. The District Magistrate, Satyendra Kumar, also denied allegations of temple damage, clarifying that idols and artifacts found would be preserved and reinstalled after completion of the work. The redevelopment project, for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone on July 7, 2023, aims to modernize the historic ghat with improved facilities.