Is there anything wrong with renaming Ramanagara?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Support for renaming Ramanagara highlights political dynamics.
- Azmi criticizes selective name changes in other states.
- Renaming aims to integrate with Bengaluru's governance.
- Controversy arises from mixed public reactions.
- Political implications of the rename strategy are significant.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) Supporting the Karnataka government's initiative to change the name of Ramanagara district to 'Bengaluru South', SP Maharashtra chief Abu Asim Azmi stated that there is “nothing wrong” with this decision. He criticized the name changes in Uttar Pradesh, claiming that only Muslim names are being intentionally modified in that state.
“This name does not promote hate. In UP and other regions, including Maharashtra, Muslim names have been selectively changed. If Karnataka wants to rename Ramanagara to Bengaluru South, what is problematic about that? Numerous names have been altered in Mumbai without targeting a specific faith. I see no difference here,” Azmi expressed to IANS.
Azmi's comments followed the Karnataka government's official announcement regarding the renaming of Ramanagara district to 'Bengaluru South'. The state’s Revenue Department confirmed that Ramanagara city will maintain its status as the district headquarters under the new title.
Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar affirmed the decision, explaining that it followed the proper procedures. “Ramanagara city will continue to be the district's headquarters. The Cabinet has decided to rename it as Bengaluru South district starting today,” he stated to reporters post-cabinet meeting.
However, this decision has ignited controversy, with Union Minister and former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy vocally opposing the change. He has pledged to overturn the decision if the opportunity arises.
Some view the renaming as a strategic political maneuver aimed at integrating Ramanagara more closely with the capital’s administrative and economic framework.
In discussing all-party delegations’ efforts against Pakistan-backed terrorism, Azmi added, “This is a commendable initiative; people must be aware of the truth regarding Pakistan harboring terrorism and its persistent support despite multiple warnings.”