Uttarakhand Government Renames 17 Locations; Local Opposition to Miyanwala Rename Sparks Controversy. Residents cite historical significance, urging the District Magistrate to retain the original name.
Uttarakhand: The Pushkar Singh Dhami government in Uttarakhand recently ordered the renaming of 17 locations and roads across the state. The ruling party lauded the move as a historical reform, while the opposition termed it a political tactic to distract the public. This decision included renaming Miyanwala in Dehradun to Ramjiwala, prompting b local opposition.
The Historical Context of Miyanwala
Local residents argue that "Miyanwala" derives from "Miyan," a Rajput title, and has no connection to the Muslim community. In a letter to the authorities, protestors claimed Miyanwala predates the founding of Dehradun. They assert the village was gifted to Guru Ram Rai during the reign of Pradeep Shah, grandson of Garhwal King Fateh Shah (1717-1772).
Historians point to mentions of Miyanwala in several historical texts, including George Williams' 1874 book 'Memoirs of Dehradun' and H.G. Walton's 1990 publication 'Dehradun Gazetteer.' These historical documents corroborate that Miyanwala was part of the land gifted to Guru Ram Rai.
Local Residents' Objections
Miyanwala residents wrote to the District Magistrate opposing the name change. The letter highlighted the area's historical and cultural significance, arguing that renaming it would tamper with their ancestors' legacy. Residents expressed a deep emotional attachment to the name Miyanwala and vowed to prevent its alteration. The letter alleged that the renaming was politically motivated, potentially creating societal divisions.
Which Locations Were Renamed?
The Dhami government's decision involved replacing several locations with names reflecting Hindu deities and historical figures. These include:
- Miyanwala in Dehradun renamed Ramjiwala.
- Aurangzeb Nagar in Bhagwanpur block, Roorkee, renamed Shivaji Nagar.
- Khanpur village in Roorkee, now called Shri Krishna Nagar.
- Nawabi Road in Haldwani renamed Atal Marg.
- Panchchakki-ITI Marg renamed Guru Golwalkar Marg.
