Politics over renaming Shimla intensifies as Cong threatens stir
VIRBHADRA’S TAKE Govt should focus on devp and not succumb to pressure from Hindu organisations, says exCM
SHIMLA : With the Himachal Pradesh government considering renaming state capital Shimla to Shyamala, the move has triggered intense politicking in the state with opposition Congress threatening to launch a stir against the government while chief minister Jai Ram Thakur maintains that his government has received several suggestions regarding the name change.
“My government has received several suggestions for changing the name of Shimla to Shyamala. Shimla is internationally acclaimed and there have been suggestions for its name change. So far, neither has the government made any move to change the name nor do we have any proposal right now,” said chief minister Jai Ram Thakur.
Thakur also hit out at opposition parties for “castigating” his government for development in Shimla. “Those criticising government over Shimla’s welfare should have a relook in the past. All problems in Shimla did not crop up in the last nine months,” he said. Six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh on Monday launched offensive against BJP government saying that the Congress will “resist” every move to change name of Shimla. “We will resist and oppose move to change Shimla’s name. If need be, Congress will launch an agitation,” said Virbhadra Singh, while accusing the government of resorting to diversionary tactics.
“Shimla is an acclaimed tourist destination. There is no deity in Shimla named Shyamala. Kali Bari temple dedicated to goddess Kali was established after the British came to India,” said Virbhadra Singh and added that the government should not distort historical names. “It’s strange that why all of a sudden government thought of renaming Shimla? They should instead focus on development of the town,” Singh said.
Congress Legislature Party leader Mukesh Agnihotri also echoed Singh’s thoughts. “It has become apparent that chief minister is finding it difficult to resist pressure from Hindu wings. The government is working under pressure,” he said.