Dr Manmohan Singh’s contributions to India’s education and economic reforms have become the centre of a fresh debate after Delhi University’s decision to name a new college after Hindutva icon Veer Savarkar. The NSUI (National Students’ Union of India), the student wing of the Congress, has formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to name the college after Dr Singh instead.
NSUI Urges PM Modi
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, NSUI National President Varun Choudhary highlighted Dr Singh’s transformative contributions to education and governance. “Dr Singh’s monumental contributions, including the Central Universities Act 2009, RTE Act 2009, and the establishment of IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, and numerous central universities, revolutionized India’s education system, benefiting millions,” wrote Choudhary.
The NSUI also proposed establishing a world-class college and a central university under Dr Singh’s name. They further emphasized the importance of including his journey from a post-Partition student to a global icon in academic curricula.
Savarkar College Sparks Debate
The college named after Veer Savarkar, set to be constructed in Najafgarh at a cost of ₹140 crore, is one of two institutions whose foundation stones were laid by PM Modi. The other institution, in East Delhi’s Fatehpur Beri, will be named after late BJP leader Sushma Swaraj. The decision to honor Savarkar, however, has sparked criticism from Congress leaders and historians.
Congress veteran Pramod Tiwari questioned the rationale behind naming the college after Savarkar, who, according to him, had limited connections with Delhi. “A name with local or historical significance would have been a better choice,” he remarked.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Legacy In Education
The NSUI’s demands stem from Dr Singh’s transformative educational reforms during his tenure. Known for introducing the landmark Central Universities Act and establishing premier institutions like IITs and AIIMS, Dr. Singh’s vision aimed to make education accessible and innovative for millions. His economic liberalization policies in 1991 further solidified his legacy as a reformer.
NSUI believes naming educational institutions after Dr Singh would inspire future generations. “His life and achievements symbolize resilience, vision, and transformative leadership,” said Choudhary.
BJP Defends Savarkar’s Legacy
The BJP has defended the decision, pointing to Savarkar’s contributions as a freedom fighter. Delhi BJP Chief Virendra Sachdeva remarked, “Veer Savarkar’s dedication to the nation is well-documented, and honoring him through this institution is a commendable decision.”
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla challenged Congress’s criticism, noting that prominent leaders like Indira Gandhi had also praised Savarkar. “Is Congress questioning their own leaders’ judgment?” he asked.
While the BJP views the naming as a tribute to an iconic figure, the Congress and its student wing see it as a missed opportunity to honor a leader with a lasting impact on India’s education and economy. As the debate intensifies, the larger question of balancing historical legacies and contemporary relevance continues to unfold.