Mayor defends renaming of Agartala Town Hall, slams oppositions for opposing

Mayor of Agartala Municipal Corporation, Dipak Majumdar on Monday has defended the state government’s decision to rename the Agartala Town Hall after Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, calling it a rightful tribute to a leader who made significant contributions to nation-building.

Responding to criticism from opposition parties, Majumdar said there is no valid reason to oppose the move, as it is a common practice across the country to name public venues after distinguished personalities. 

"Similar naming decisions have been taken in several states, including during the tenure of the opposition, when halls and institutions were named after their party leaders without much contention," he said.

He argued that the current opposition is protesting only because the decision reflects the ideology of the ruling BJP.

“This hall is being named after a leader whose ideals align with the present government’s vision for the nation. That’s the only reason they are objecting,” he said.

Highlighting the BJP government’s commitment to recognizing deserving figures, Majumdar pointed out that the Agartala airport was renamed after Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur as a mark of respect for his contributions. 

"Similarly, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee's role in shaping the Indian nation cannot be overlooked. Honouring him is a matter of pride for Tripura," he added.

Criticizing the previous Left Front regime, Majumdar alleged that several halls and institutions in Agartala were renamed after their own leaders who, according to him, had little to no role in national development. 

“Dr. Mukherjee has contributed far more to India's nation-building than any of them. The decision to rename the Town Hall is justified and timely,” he said.

Chief Minister Manik Saha had recently announced the renaming of the Agartala Town Hall, sparking political reactions across party lines.