Amid ongoing controversy over the tomb of Aurangzeb in Maharashtra, the BJP-led government in Uttarakhand on Monday (March 31) announced the renaming of 11 locations across four districts, eliminating references to the Mughal era.

Among the renamed places, Aurangzebpur in Haridwar has been changed to Shivaji Nagar, Ghaziwali to Arya Nagar, Khanpur to Shri Krishnapur, and Khanpur Kursali to Ambedkar Nagar.

In Dehradun, Miyawala has been renamed Ramjiwala, while Chandpur Khurd will now be known as Prithviraj Nagar.

In Nainital, Nawabi Road has been renamed Atal Road, and Panchukki Marg has been changed to Guru Golwalkar Marg, after the second RSS chief.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the renaming initiative aims to honor India's historical and cultural legacy while instilling a sense of pride in citizens by commemorating figures who contributed to preserving the country’s traditions.

"The names of various places are being changed in accordance with public sentiment and Indian culture and heritage. They are being named after great men who contributed to the Indian culture and its preservation," PTI quoted Dhami as saying.

The move is part of the state government's broader campaign to reinforce cultural identity and historical recognition. The BJP has welcomed the decision, describing it as an effort to remove remnants of colonial and Mughal influences.

Party leader Amit Malviya, in a post on X, lauded the renaming drive, stating, “Uttarakhand has announced the renaming of several locations across Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar districts. The new names reflect public sentiment and uphold India’s cultural and historical heritage. This initiative seeks to honor great personalities who have played a significant role in preserving Indian culture, inspiring future generations.”