Renaming spree has reached Andaman and Nicobar islands. This time it is in tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. PM Narendra Modi renames 3 Andaman and Nicobar islands, The Ross Island renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, the Neil Island as Shaheed Dweep and the Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep. Besides renaming, he also laid the foundation stone of Hope Town for Rs. 388 crore gas-based power plant.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated a slew of development projects and laid foundation stones of several others related to energy, connectivity, education, tourism and health sectors.
PM Modi paid the visit on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the hoisting of the Tricolour by Bose here. Donning the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army) cap, he addressed a public meeting at Netaji Stadium.
“When it comes to heroes of the freedom struggle, we take the name of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose with pride. The first Prime Minister of the Azad Hind government Subhash Babu had made India’s independence resolution on the soil of Andaman,” he said.
“The country draws inspiration from Andaman. That is why the government has issued a notification and I am proudly announcing that henceforth, Ross Island will be known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep. The Neil Island will be known as Shahid Dweep and Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep,” he said.
Quite surprising that the Government didn’t have to mould the history for its own benefit. On this day in 1943, Bose had suggested that Andaman and Nicobar Islands be renamed as Shahid and Swaraj Dweep respectively. During the World War II, the Japanese had captured the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Netaji came here as the Azad Hind Fauz led by him was an ally of the Japanese force.
“The historical event of 30th December 1943 has been completed today after 75 years,” he said.
Apart from this, PM Modi also visited the historical Cellular Jail where he meditated in homage at the cell where Veer Sawarkar was lodged.
Though this time the issue is not religious and can be associated with Bose’s wishes but still, the government can do much better than changing names.
