India, Jan. 15 -- Protestors opposed a demolition drive under the redevelopment plan of Manikarnika Ghat, alleging damage to a century-old idol of Ahilyabai Holkar, a charge refuted by the district administration.

District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar on Wednesday said artefacts had been preserved for reinstallation, adding that the revamp was aimed at improving sanitation and space management at the ghat, which witnesses a large number of cremations daily. "The work is being carried out on the kachcha portion and for the reconstruction of old steps.

Certain artworks and idols embedded in walls were affected during the process, but they have been secured by the Culture Department and will be reinstalled in their original form after comple...