SFI opposes proposal to rename Barkatullah University as Vagdevi Bhopal University

Students' Federation of India (SFI) has opposed the decision to rename Barkatullah University, Bhopal, and demanded that the Madhya Pradesh government withdraw the proposal.

In a statement, the student organisation alleged that the move is part of a broader attempt to alter the historical identity of educational institutions.

The controversy follows a resolution passed by the executive council of Barkatullah University to rename the institution as Vagdevi Bhopal University.

Established in 1970 as Bhopal University, the institution was renamed Barkatullah University in 1988 after freedom fighter Maulana Barkatullah Bhopali, who is known for his role in India's anti-colonial movement and his association with the Ghadar Movement.

Barkatullah University Rename: SFI calls for rollback

SFI argued that replacing the name of the university with that of a religious symbol amounts to erasing the legacy of historical figures who contributed to India's freedom struggle. The organisation claimed that similar moves have been witnessed in different parts of the country and described the proposal as part of a larger trend of communalisation.

The student body also questioned the timing of the decision, stating that several pressing issues affecting higher education in Madhya Pradesh remain unresolved. As per the SFI, concerns relating to infrastructure, staff welfare and student grievances require greater attention from authorities.

In its statement, SFI urged students, teachers and other stakeholders to oppose the proposed name change and seek revocation of the executive council's resolution. The organisation said it would continue campaigns against what it described as attempts to politicise educational institutions.

The proposal to rename the university is yet to undergo further administrative and governmental processes before it can be formally implemented.