Demand to rename Garib Rath as Samman Rath gains momentum

A growing demand to rename the popular Garib Rath trains as Samman Rath is gaining momentum, with many calling for a move that upholds the dignity of the lower-middle class. The Garib Rath trains, introduced in 2006 by then Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, were designed to offer affordable air-conditioned travel. The first such train ran from Saharsa (Bihar) to Amritsar (Punjab), targeting economically weaker sections of society.

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Deepak Bhardwaj, a member of the Zonal Railway Users’ Consultative Committee (Northern Railway) and resident of Nurpur, has formally appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider the renaming. In his heartfelt memorandum submitted yesterday, Bhardwaj argued that the term Garib Rath (Poor Man’s Chariot) unintentionally undermines the self-respect of millions who rely on these trains.

He emphasised that this segment of society—comprising farmers, teachers, professionals, working women, and students—forms the backbone of the nation and deserves respectful terminology. “The word ‘garib’ carries a stigma that affects the dignity of hard-working citizens,” he said.

Highlighting the vital role these trains play in providing low-cost, long-distance AC travel between major Indian cities, Bhardwaj noted that renaming them as Samman Rath (Chariot of respect) would be a symbolic yet significant gesture. He urged the government to take the step as a mark of recognition for the dignity, hard work and aspirations of the nation’s striving middle and lower-middle class.