The political atmosphere in Delhi has once again heated up over the renaming of a road. A growing number of BJP MPs have started displaying nameplates reading ‘Swami Vivekanand Marg’ outside their residences in Tughlaq Lane. On Friday, Faridabad MP and Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar added a Swami Vivekanand Marg nameplate to his bungalow.
Google Maps Reflects Name Change
Prior to this, BJP MP Dinesh Sharma had installed a similar nameplate outside his residence on Thursday. Additionally, several other bungalows in the area now display Swami Vivekanand Marg plates, and Google Maps has also begun identifying this lane by the same name.
No Official Announcement from NDMC
Despite these changes, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has not officially declared any name change for the lane. Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar emphasized that Swami Vivekanand represents an inspirational figure for Indian youth, and many people’s emotions are tied to his legacy. According to Gurjar, this is not a political move but rather a tribute to Vivekanand’s ideals. Nonetheless, critics argue that this action appears politically motivated, especially since the official renaming process has yet to be followed. The incident has sparked a debate blending political motives with cultural sentiments.
AAP Criticizes BJP’s Actions
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has criticized the BJP for renaming roads historically associated with Mughal rulers. AAP MP Sanjay Singh remarked that while BJP leaders are busy changing the names of Mughal-linked roads, the Prime Minister is simultaneously guiding foreign dignitaries, such as the U.S. President, to landmarks like the Taj Mahal.
Singh added that Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar’s move to install a Vivekanand Marg plate at his residence was a positive gesture reflecting patriotism. However, he questioned why BJP leaders showcase Mughal-era sites to foreign guests if they are so intent on erasing Mughal influences. Singh emphasized that India’s Mughal history remains significant, and there should be constructive dialogue about the contributions of Mughal rulers.
