New Delhi, December 7:
Manish Tewari, MP from Chandigarh and former Union Minister, raised the issue in the Lok Sabha regarding an objectionable and unfortunate remark made by the Lahore Municipal Corporation in Pakistan’s Lahore High Court. The remark came in response to a petition seeking the renaming of Lahore’s Shadman Chowk to Bhagat Singh Chowk. Tewari questioned the Minister of External Affairs about the steps taken to lodge a protest with Pakistan over this matter.
He also inquired about the measures the central government has taken in light of the increasing intolerance and anti-India sentiment in Pakistan, as evidenced by the treatment of iconic figures like Shaheed Bhagat Singh. Furthermore, Tewari asked what initiatives have been implemented to preserve Bhagat Singh’s legacy and to promote global recognition of his contributions to India’s freedom movement.
Responding to these questions, Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, stated that the Government of India has taken serious note of the objectionable remarks about Shaheed Bhagat Singh in Pakistan. The government has lodged a strong diplomatic protest with Pakistan. He also highlighted that India has raised concerns about attacks on cultural heritage, growing intolerance, and the lack of respect for minorities in Pakistan.
The Minister emphasized that the government and the nation deeply honor Bhagat Singh’s invaluable contribution to India’s freedom struggle. He noted that Bhagat Singh’s martyrdom day is commemorated annually with great respect, both in India and at Indian embassies abroad, where tributes are offered to honor his legacy.