Culturally Significant: UP MLC Advocates for Renaming Muzaffarnagar
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Synopsis
Mohit Beniwal, BJP MLC, calls for renaming Muzaffarnagar to 'Laxminagar', emphasizing cultural identity and public sentiment, while criticizing opposition parties. The proposal sparks political debate.
Key Takeaways
- BJP MLC Mohit Beniwal advocates for renaming Muzaffarnagar.
- Historical and cultural significance highlighted in the proposal.
- Criticism of opposition parties for their stance on the issue.
- Public sentiment is a key factor in the renaming discussion.
- Political debate regarding cultural restoration versus electoral strategy.
Lucknow, March 5 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh BJP MLC and state vice-president Mohit Beniwal on Wednesday reaffirmed the call to rename Muzaffarnagar to 'Laxminagar', highlighting public sentiment and historical significance.
During the Legislative Council's budget session on Tuesday, he urged the government to address this matter earnestly.
In an interview with IANS, Beniwal stated, "In India, Mughal rulers historically destroyed temples, altered city names, and renamed roads during their invasions. Muzaffarnagar derives its name from Muzaffar Ali, a Mughal chieftain. From both a historical and cultural viewpoint, renaming it 'Laxminagar' is vital, as it is already recognized as a sacred site."
Beniwal stressed that this demand has persisted among Muzaffarnagar’s residents, contending that restoring the city’s original identity resonates with their cultural and religious beliefs.
Historically, Muzaffarnagar was referred to as Sarwat until Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan granted the land as a jagir to his chieftain Syed Muzaffar Khan in 1633. His son, Munavvar Lashkar Khan, later named the city after his father.
Today, Muzaffarnagar functions as the district headquarters and a key player in the jaggery trade. It is strategically positioned near historic towns like Meerut, Bijnor, and Hastinapur, and is linked to National Highway 58.
Beniwal also criticized opposition parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party, accusing them of misleading the public.
"Opposition leaders need to clarify their stance: do they side with the Mughal rulers or with the 140 crore citizens of this nation? Do they support those who destroyed temples or our cultural nationalism?" he questioned.
He recognized that some political factions oppose such renaming initiatives but insisted that the government must prioritize public sentiment and act promptly.
"Prayagraj, previously known as Allahabad, was renamed to honor its historical and religious significance. Presently, the Maha Kumbh takes place there, attracting over 65 crore devotees. This enhances our cultural identity globally. If the opposition finds this troubling, I have no explanation for them," Beniwal added.
The push to rename Muzaffarnagar has ignited a political debate, with the BJP advocating for cultural restoration while the opposition perceives it as an electoral tactic. Whether the state government will respond to this proposal remains uncertain.
