Sarai Kale Khan Chowk Renamed to Bhagwan Birsa Munda Chowk

The renaming of Sarai Kale Khan Chowk to Bhagwan Birsa Munda Chowk has sparked controversy between the Delhi government and the Union government. Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a statue of the tribal icon, Bhagwan Birsa Munda, on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary and announced the renaming. However, the Delhi government questioned the legitimacy of this move, citing the lack of an active State Naming Authority and the absence of due process for renaming locations.

The Renaming Announcement

On the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar declared the renaming of the Sarai Kale Khan intersection, an important transit point where east, central, and north Delhi converge. The decision aims to honor Birsa Munda, a tribal freedom fighter, and to promote his legacy to inspire visitors at the ISBT bus stand.

Dispute Over Naming Authority

The AAP-led Delhi government raised concerns about the renaming process, arguing that Delhi lacks an active road naming authority, which is crucial for such changes. The Delhi government pointed out that Sarai Kale Khan was not officially recognized in government records, and thus, questioned the validity of the renaming.

Union Government’s Stance

Union government sources, however, defended the renaming, stating that the intersection had no formal name in official records, and that the change was part of a broader effort to represent tribal identities in the capital. The renaming is seen as a tribute to Birsa Munda’s significant role in the tribal freedom movement.

Legacy of Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda, known as ‘Dharti Aba’ (Father of the Earth), led the Ulgulan rebellion against British colonial forces, fighting for tribal rights and land ownership in the Chotanagpur region. His efforts inspired a massive tribal movement in Bihar and Jharkhand. His birth anniversary, November 15, was declared ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ in 2021, recognizing his contributions to India’s tribal communities.

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