Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday stated that the Centre should accept West Bengal government’s demand to change its name, especially after approving a similar proposal from Kerala.
On Tuesday, the Union Cabinet approved Kerala’s proposal to rename the state as Keralam. After this decision, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed disappointment, saying her state’s renaming proposal has been pending with the Centre for a long time.
Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of an event, Omar said that other states have also sought name changes. He said if the West Bengal Assembly has passed a proposal to rename the state, the Centre should consider and accept it.
He added that if a similar proposal is brought in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly in the future, the Centre should give it proper consideration as well. The chief minister also welcomed Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on his first visit to Kashmir after taking office. The Vice President is scheduled to attend the 21st convocation of Kashmir University on Thursday.
"He is arriving this evening to attend the convocation. Students are eagerly waiting to receive their degrees and medals from him. This is his first visit after assuming office and we welcome him," Omar said.
Earlier in the day, the chief minister laid the foundation stone for the ‘Bab-ul-Sultan-ul-Arifeen’ calligraphy gate at Rainawari Chowk. He said the project is part of the government’s efforts to beautify the old city. Such initiatives will help attract tourists and benefit the downtown areas, he added.
Also read: Kerala set to be renamed 'Keralam'
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