As Delhi University prepares to name one of its upcoming colleges after Veer Savarkar, the Congress party's student wing has raised objections and demanded that it be named after former PM Manmohan Singh instead. The decision has sparked a political row, with the Congress citing Savarkar's controversial past and allegations of collaboration. Meanwhile, the BJP has defended the decision, stating that Savarkar was a freedom fighter and welcoming the move to honor him. The upcoming college will be constructed in Najafgarh and is part of a larger effort to establish three new colleges in Delhi.
Veer Savarkar: Controversy over Naming Delhi University College
The decision to name an upcoming Delhi University college after Veer Savarkar has stirred political controversy and raised questions about his legacy.
Background:
Veer Savarkar was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. However, his political views and actions have been subject to debate and criticism. He advocated for a militant form of nationalism and was accused of collaborating with the British authorities during his imprisonment.
Current Controversy:
The Congress party's student wing, the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), has objected to naming the college after Savarkar, citing his alleged role in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. The party has demanded that it be named after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh instead.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is currently in power at the center and in Delhi, has defended the decision, describing Savarkar as a freedom fighter and stating that the move is to honor his contributions.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. Who was Veer Savarkar?
Veer Savarkar was an Indian nationalist and political activist who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement.
2. Why is the decision to name the college after Savarkar controversial?
Some critics argue that Savarkar was a polarizing figure who advocated for violence and held controversial views, including supporting the caste system.
3. What role did Savarkar play in the Indian independence movement?
Savarkar was one of the founders of the Hindu Mahasabha and advocated for militant nationalism. He was imprisoned by the British authorities but later released.
4. What evidence is there of Savarkar's collaboration with the British?
Savarkar's letters from prison have been cited as evidence of his alleged collaboration with the British authorities. However, the authenticity and interpretation of these letters have been disputed.
5. Is it appropriate to honor someone with a controversial legacy?
The question of whether it is appropriate to honor individuals with controversial legacies is a complex one that depends on the specific circumstances and the perspectives of different groups.
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