Differences within BJP over naming of medical college

Differences have come to the fore within the BJP over the naming of Maharshi Chyawan Medical College at Koriawas village in the district. BJP state president Mohan Lal Badoli has endorsed the government’s decision to name the college after Maharishi Chyawan, citing public demand, local sentiment and the sage’s historical ties to Dhosi Hill, where his ashram is located.

Badoli's remarks come days after former minister and BJP MLA from Narnaul Om Prakash Yadav, a close aide of Union minister Rao Inderjit Singh, expressed support for protesters demanding the college be named after freedom fighter Rao Tula Ram. Yadav even warned of potential losses for the BJP in the next elections if the demand was not fulfilled.

During his visit to Narnaul on Monday, Badoli held discussions with workers on organisational matters and upcoming campaigns. Accompanied by Yadav, he also spoke to the media.

“The government has done a good job. If the protesters’ demand is not met here, it will be met elsewhere. Many institutions, roads, and other development projects are already named after Rao Tula Ram, and more will be in the future. Society must judge the motive behind the protest and the government’s work,” he said, responding to a media query.

Speaking to ‘The Tribune’, Badoli claimed that the decision to name the college after Maharishi Chyawan was made keeping in mind the local sentiments.

“The OPD services have already started. It would have been more appropriate to demand that other development projects in the region be named after Rao Tula Ram,” he added.

Asked if the protesters’ demand is ‘unjustified’, Badoli said it would be premature to comment without first speaking with the protesting villagers. "Everyone has the right to voice their demands. It is the government’s responsibility to address them,” he said.