Name Change Proposal For Pune Railway Station Sparks Controversy
Name Change Proposal For Pune Railway Station Sparks Controversy
Pune, June 23, 2025: The proposal to rename Pune Railway Station has stirred a heated debate, with two prominent names being considered: Peshwa Bajirao I and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. The issue was raised during a recent railway meeting held in Pune between the Pune and Solapur divisions, which was attended by several MPs and public representatives.
BJP MP Medha Kulkarni has formally demanded that Pune station be renamed after Shrimant Thorale Bajirao Peshwa, citing his contributions to the Maratha Empire and Pune’s historical legacy. She argued that the station should reflect the city’s cultural and historical significance, noting that Bajirao extended the Hindavi Swarajya from Attock to Cuttack and that his military legacy continues to inspire even modern defence academies like NDA.
“Renaming railway stations and airports after historical figures helps the public reconnect with India’s glorious past. Pune, known as the cultural and educational capital, deserves a station name that reflects its heritage,” she told reporters after the meeting.
However, the proposal has met strong resistance. The Sambhaji Brigade and Republican Party of India have demanded that the station be named after Mahatma Jyotirao Phule instead. They argue that Phule, a social reformer who championed education and the rights of women and backward communities, is more representative of Pune’s legacy as the cradle of knowledge.
RPI leader Sachin Kharaat expressed firm opposition to naming the station after Bajirao, stating, “We reject any attempt to glorify modern Peshwai. It was Mahatma Phule who discovered Shivaji Maharaj’s tomb and initiated the tradition of celebrating his birth anniversary. Pune is known as the seat of knowledge because of Phule’s contributions. The station should bear his name.”
With both camps holding firm positions, the renaming issue appears headed for a larger public and political debate. While supporters of the Peshwa legacy emphasize historical military valor, those backing Phule highlight his revolutionary social reforms.
As the central government has the final authority on renaming railway stations, the matter could escalate in the coming weeks if consensus is not reached.
