Prayagraj Effect: These Cities In Uttar Pradesh Are Now Crying ‘We Too’ 

After the renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj, several groups have been demanding the renaming of other cities in the state. Some of the demands include renaming of Azamgarh to Aryamgarh, Faizabad to Saket, Aligarh to Harigarh and Muzaffarnagar to Laxminagar.

President of Muzaffarnagar BJP, Sudhir Saini, has been quoted by Hindustan Times as saying, “Hindu organisations have been demanding a change in the name of Muzaffarnagar as they believe the place was once known as Laxminagar.”

UP Minister for Medical and Health, Sidharth Nath Singh, told the media that the government will take a call on the issue after thoroughly studying the matter. He feels positive about the government taking in suggestions for renaming cities.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP)‘s senior leader Sadashiv has been quoted by Hindustan Times as saying, “We are not against anybody. Our freedom fighters laid down their lives to win Independence. Many towns have names after Mughal rulers. It is high time our cities got back their ancient names and identities. Names that are symbols of slavery should be named after patriots.”

About a couple of months ago, Yogi Adityanath’s government renamed Mughalsarai railway station after Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay.