In an emphatic statement, Sharad Pawar, the President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), emphatically proclaimed that no individual or entity possesses the prerogative to modify the nomenclature of the nation. This declaration came in response to recent contentions arising from a G20 dinner invitation that purportedly refers to the President as the “President of Bharat,” igniting a nationwide debate on the sanctity of India’s title.
Addressing reporters during a press conference in the district of Jalgaon, Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar expressed his bewilderment regarding the ruling party’s disquietude over the nomenclature associated with the country. He articulated his thoughts succinctly, questioning the rationale behind the perturbation.
In light of these developments, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has convened a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, drawing participation from leaders representing the INDIA alliance—a formidable opposition coalition comprising 28 diverse political parties, collectively poised to challenge the incumbent BJP-led government in the forthcoming general elections.
Responding to queries regarding potential alterations to India’s name within the constitutional framework, Sharad Pawar remained candid, asserting his lack of information on the subject matter. However, he reiterated the unequivocal principle that no individual or authority can alter the nation’s nomenclature, reaffirming India’s indomitable identity.
The forthcoming meeting under the aegis of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, bringing together the leaders of the INDIA alliance, is anticipated to serve as a forum for extensive deliberation on this critical issue. Sharad Pawar’s resolute stance reflects the sentiment that the sanctity of India’s name remains inviolable.
Notably, the Congress party had raised concerns on Tuesday, contending that the “Union of States” is confronting a challenge posed by the Modi government, as it pointed to the G20 dinner invitation’s reference to the President as the “President of Bharat.”
It is pertinent to mention that the G20 Summit is scheduled to transpire in New Delhi from September 9 to 10, marking India’s presidency on the global stage. Dignitaries from around the world, including the esteemed presence of US President Joe Biden, are expected to grace this significant event.
PTI
