Hindutva groups demand renaming of Delhi, demolition of Mughal-era structures
Historians, scholars warn of cultural erasure and rising communal tensions
New Delhi: A fresh controversy has erupted as Hindutva groups, led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), have demanded renaming Delhi to “Indraprastha” and replacing Mughal-era structures with statues of Hindu warriors. The move follows similar right-wing campaigns seeking to erase traces of India’s Mughal history.
According to Kashmir Media Service, speaking at a meeting with Delhi VHP officials, the organization’s state minister, Surender Gupta, called for the demolition of structures from the Mughal era, labeling them symbols of “invasion.” His remarks have drawn strong criticism from scholars, activists, and historians, who warn of deepening communal divisions.
Prominent Islamic scholar Maulana Arshad Madani condemned the demand, stating, “These calls for demolitions are dangerously polarizing. India is a secular nation, and its heritage belongs to all. Are we setting a precedent for cultural destruction?”
Activist Feroz Alam from Delhi called the demand an attempt to marginalize Muslims. “Shah Jahan, Akbar, and other Mughal emperors made invaluable contributions to India’s art, architecture, and heritage. Their legacy is India’s legacy.”
Historians have also expressed alarm, warning that such actions threaten India’s cultural and historical richness. Many argue that erasing Mughal-era structures would not only distort history but also deal an economic blow to India’s tourism industry, which heavily benefits from the architectural marvels of the period.
The demand to rename Delhi and erase Mughal heritage is seen as part of a broader Hindutva agenda, raising fears of escalating communal tensions. KMS
