Agartala Town Hall Renamed: A Tribute to Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee
By Northeast Press Desk | Agartala | JULY 6, 2025
Agartala Town Hall renamed—In a major announcement that reflects both historical recognition and political symbolism, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday stated that the Agartala Town Hall—a key landmark in the capital city—will soon be renamed as Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee Hall. The formal notification for the name change is expected to be issued in the coming days.
The announcement was made on the occasion of the 126th birth anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee, a celebrated freedom fighter, educationist, and founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the ideological predecessor of the present-day Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Chief Minister shared this decision with the media after offering floral tributes to Dr. Mookherjee’s portrait in Agartala.
Historical Significance of Agartala Town Hall
Originally known as ‘Uzir Bari’—a two-storeyed red-brick structure that served as the Prime Minister’s house during the princely rule of Tripura—the building was acquired by the state government post-independence and was inaugurated as Agartala Town Hall in 1985 by then Vice President of India, R. Venkataraman. The venue has since been a cultural and civic hub, accommodating over 1,100 people.
According to Chief Minister Saha, renaming the historic building is a symbolic tribute to Dr. Mookherjee’s unparalleled contributions to India’s education, politics, and national integration. He emphasized that this decision aligns with the sentiments of the people of Tripura and reflects the enduring legacy of a national icon.
“Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee was not only a prominent educationist and freedom fighter but also a visionary leader who laid the foundation for a stronger India. Renaming Agartala Town Hall in his honour is our collective way of recognizing his sacrifice and contributions,”
said CM Saha.
Dr. Mookherjee’s Legacy Highlighted
Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee, son of renowned jurist and educationist Sir Ashutosh Mookherjee, was born on July 6, 1901, and is remembered as the youngest Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University, having assumed the role at just 33 years of age. He played a critical role during India’s partition, resisting efforts by the Muslim League to annex the entire Bengal region. His efforts ensured the creation of West Bengal as a separate state for Hindu Bengalis.
Post-independence, Mookherjee served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Prime Minister Nehru’s cabinet. However, he resigned in 1950 in protest of the Nehru-Liaquat Pact, which he criticized for compromising the rights of Hindus in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). In 1951, he founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, a political movement rooted in national unity and integrity.
Dr. Mookherjee’s death in Kashmir in 1953 under mysterious circumstances while in custody continues to be a subject of political debate. He had entered the state to protest Article 370 and the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, a cause that has since seen political closure with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
A Tribute to National Integration
Drawing a connection between Mookherjee’s efforts and current political developments, CM Manik Saha credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for realizing the vision of a fully integrated Jammu and Kashmir. “Dr. Mookherjee’s mission has finally been fulfilled. Yet, his ideals and his commitment to India’s unity remain timeless,” the Chief Minister said.
Public Reaction and Notification Awaited
The announcement has been welcomed by BJP workers and many in the Bengali Hindu community, while opposition leaders have reserved their comments, calling for broader public consultation before renaming major landmarks.
A formal government notification is expected soon, after which the Agartala Town Hall will officially bear the name Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookherjee Hall. The renaming is expected to be followed by commemorative events and possible restoration work to honor the building’s new identity.
Conclusion:
The decision to rename Agartala Town Hall stands as a significant gesture in Tripura’s socio-political narrative. As one of the state’s oldest cultural venues transitions into a monument of historical remembrance, the government aims to bridge heritage with nationalistic tribute. All eyes are now on the forthcoming notification and the public response it may generate.
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