Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Centre of being “anti-Bengali” after the Union Cabinet approved Kerala’s proposal to officially rename the state as Kerala to Keralam.
Congratulating Kerala on the approval, Banerjee said that despite repeated efforts, her government’s proposal to rename West Bengal as “Bangla” has not received clearance from the Centre.
“They Are Not Approving Because They Are Anti-Bengali”
Addressing reporters in Kolkata, Banerjee expressed surprise and frustration over the delay in approving West Bengal’s renaming proposal.
“I think they are not approving it because they are anti-Bengali. They disrespect the icons and visionaries of Bengal. They only use the word ‘Bangla’ during elections for electoral benefit. That is why they have not given the approval,” she said.
Banerjee stated that she has raised the issue multiple times in meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, but “nothing has happened so far.”
West Bengal’s Proposal to Become “Bangla”
The West Bengal government has twice passed resolutions in the state Assembly seeking to rename the state from “West Bengal” to “Bangla,” citing cultural and linguistic identity.
According to Banerjee:
- The proposal is based on the state’s historical and cultural heritage.
- The change would reflect the Bengali identity more accurately.
- Resolutions were adopted by the Legislative Assembly and forwarded to the Centre.
She remarked that as Chief Minister of West Bengal, she often gets an opportunity to speak “at the end” in official meetings and has consistently pushed for approval of the renaming proposal.
Kerala Renamed as Keralam
The controversy comes after the Union Cabinet approved Kerala’s proposal to officially change its name to Keralam, months ahead of the state’s Assembly elections. The Kerala Assembly had already passed a resolution seeking the change in official records.
Banerjee congratulated Kerala but questioned why West Bengal’s similar request remains pending.
Allegation of Political “Alliance”
In a pointed political remark, Banerjee suggested that the Centre’s approval of Kerala’s name change indicates an emerging understanding between the BJP and Kerala’s ruling CPM.
“The alliance is not unwritten anymore after today,” she said.
She questioned why West Bengal continues to face what she termed “deprivation” and expressed hope that the state’s name change would eventually be approved when the BJP is no longer in power at the Centre.
Broader Political Context
The debate over renaming states often involves:
- Constitutional procedures under Article 3.
- State Assembly resolutions.
- Parliamentary approval following Centre’s consent.
While Kerala’s proposal has moved forward, West Bengal’s request remains under consideration, according to earlier official statements.
The issue has now taken on political overtones, with Banerjee framing it as a matter of cultural recognition and alleged bias, while the Centre has not publicly responded to her latest remarks.
What Happens Next?
For any state name change:
- The state Assembly passes a resolution.
- The proposal is sent to the Union Government.
- Parliament must pass legislation to amend official records.
Whether West Bengal’s proposal to become “Bangla” will receive approval remains uncertain.
Conclusion
Mamata Banerjee’s remarks have intensified the political debate surrounding state renaming decisions. While Kerala has secured approval to become Keralam, West Bengal’s proposal to adopt the name “Bangla” continues to await central clearance.
The issue is likely to remain politically charged as both state and national elections approach, with identity, culture, and federal relations once again at the forefront of discourse.
