West Bengal Assembly Officially Renames Murshidabad University
In a significant move to honor historical legacy, the West Bengal Legislative Assembly has passed a bill to rename Murshidabad University. The institution will now be officially known as Murshidabad Maharaja Krishnanath University, Berhampore.
Restoring Historical Legacy
West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu announced the renaming during a Saturday session of the state Assembly. He emphasized that this decision restores the historical connection to Maharaja Krishnanath, a 19th-century royal figure who dedicated his life and property to education.
"After 123 years, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has restored full honour to Maharaja Krishnanath by renaming the university," Basu declared during the legislative debate.
The Royal Benefactor's Story
Minister Basu recounted that Maharaja Krishnanath, who lived for only 22 years, donated his entire property to ensure that children in Murshidabad could access higher education. The institution traces its origins to Berhampore Krishnanath College, which was established in 1853.
Basu noted that noted educationist Dr. Rezaul Karim had originally proposed naming the institution after Maharaja Krishnanath, recognizing his foundational contribution to education in the region.
Addressing Public Sentiment
The Education Minister explained that when the college was later renamed Murshidabad College, sections of the local population expressed disappointment. Multiple representations were submitted seeking restoration of the original legacy-linked name.
"Acknowledging these sentiments, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee approved the renaming of the university to honour Maharaja Krishnanath, recognising the emotional attachment of the people of Murshidabad to the historic institution," Basu stated.
Cross-Party Support for the Decision
The renaming received support from legislators across political parties:
- Lalgola (Murshidabad) TMC MLA Mohammed Ali welcomed the move
- Basirhat Uttar (North 24 Parganas) MLA Rafikul Islam Mondal thanked the state government
- Opposition BJP MLA Arup Das (Kanthi Dakshin in Purba Medinipur) expressed gratitude for the decision
During the discussion, the BJP MLA further urged the Education Minister to ensure that Krishnanath College attains full university-level dignity and recognition, highlighting its historical and academic significance.
Formal Implementation
With the passage of the bill, the university will officially function under the new name: Murshidabad Maharaja Krishnanath University, Berhampore. Legislators described this as a restoration of honor that acknowledges both historical legacy and contemporary public sentiment.
The renaming represents a significant moment in West Bengal's educational history, connecting modern higher education institutions with their 19th-century foundations and the visionary philanthropy that made them possible.
