A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari announced that if the BJP comes to power in the state, no roads or public places in Kolkata will carry names of Mughal, Pathan, or British rulers. He said all such names would be reviewed and changed.
His remarks came amid an ongoing debate in the West Bengal Assembly over the renaming of streets and public places, adding fuel to an already heated political discussion.
Committee formed to review names of roads and public places
During the discussion on the Governor’s address in the Assembly, a proposal was discussed to form a committee to examine existing names of roads and public places across the state.
According to the plan, the committee will review whether names linked to historical figures from colonial or foreign rule should be changed.
Suvendu Adhikari said the review is necessary to “correct historical mistakes” and restore what he called cultural identity.
Suhrawardy Avenue renamed as Gopal Mukherjee Road
The controversy intensified after the Kolkata Municipal Corporation recently renamed Suhrawardy Avenue in the Park Circus area as Gopal Mukherjee Road.
This decision led to strong political reactions and criticism from the opposition, which accused the state government of altering historical names for political reasons.
The issue was also discussed in the West Bengal Assembly on June 23, where it became a major point of debate.
Opposition calls renaming an attempt to alter history
Opposition leader Ritabrata Banerjee questioned the renaming decision, saying that changing established names amounts to “tampering with history.”
He argued that Suhrawardy Avenue was not linked to controversial historical narratives as claimed by some groups. He said the renaming reflects a political agenda rather than administrative necessity.
The opposition also raised concerns that repeated renaming of roads could create confusion and undermine historical continuity in Kolkata.
Debate over historical identity and legacy
Supporters of the renaming initiative argue that public places should reflect local cultural identity and national heroes. However, critics believe that removing names associated with historical figures erases important parts of the city’s past.
The debate has now become part of a larger political and ideological clash in West Bengal over history, identity, and representation.
Subhendu Adhikari’s strong statement on naming policy
Suvendu Adhikari said, “There will be no place in Kolkata named after Mughals, Pathans or oppressive British figures.”
He welcomed the renaming of Suhrawardy Avenue and called it a step toward correcting historical wrongs. He also announced that a committee will be formed to review all such names.
The committee will reportedly be headed by Swami Pradipanand Maharaj, also known as Karthik Maharaj. He urged citizens to submit suggestions regarding naming changes.
Adhikari added that names of national figures such as APJ Abdul Kalam could be considered for recognition, while also emphasizing the importance of preserving Bengali pride and cultural identity.
