Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced that Bhadohi district will be officially renamed back to Sant Ravidas Nagar. Speaking at an event in Varanasi to launch the Samrasata Sankalp Abhiyan initiative of the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Chief Minister emphasized his administration's commitment to giving top priority to honoring revered saints, national builders, and social reformers. The decision to restore the district's former name has been timed to mark the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas.
Criticism of Previous Administration and Restoration of Heritage
During his address, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a direct political attack on the previous Samajwadi Party government. He alleged that the former regime engaged in actions that compromised the legacy of great figures like Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar and Sant Ravidas by erasing identities associated with their names. The Chief Minister stated that such changes caused disrespect to the contributions of iconic social reformers. He reaffirmed that the current state administration remains dedicated to protecting and celebrating Uttar Pradesh's rich historical and cultural heritage.
Occasion of the 650th Birth Anniversary
Highlighting the historical context, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recalled that Bhadohi district was previously known as Sant Ravidas Nagar. He noted that the upcoming 650th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas serves as a fitting milestone to reinstate the original nomenclature. Addressing the audience at the Samrasata Sankalp Abhiyan gathering, he assured that the state government is taking all necessary steps to complete the renaming process and restore the historic identity without delay.
Official Notification and Political Landscape
The announcement has sparked renewed discussion across the political spectrum in Uttar Pradesh. The formal renaming of the district will take legal effect once the government completes the mandated administrative protocols, after which an official government notification will be published. Following Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's public declaration in Varanasi, there has been no immediate official reaction or statement issued by the Samajwadi Party regarding the decision.
