Tue Feb 24 12:04:55 UTC 2026: ### Rajaji Statue Installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Sparks Political Debate

The Story:
On Monday, February 23, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing a bust of British architect Edwin Lutyens. The move was described as a step towards “shedding the vestiges of colonial mindset.” The installation has ignited political debate, with Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praising the initiative and BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla highlighting divisions within the opposition INDIA bloc on the matter. Iltija Mufti, of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party, criticized the removal of Lutyens’ bust, arguing against effacing heritage.

Key Points:

  • President Murmu unveiled a bust of Rajaji at Rashtrapati Bhavan on February 23, 2026.
  • The bust replaces that of Edwin Lutyens, a British architect.
  • Shashi Tharoor lauded the move, highlighting Rajaji’s role as the first Indian Governor-General and his values.
  • Shehzad Poonawalla pointed to a split within the Congress and the INDIA bloc regarding the installation.
  • Iltija Mufti criticized the removal of Lutyens’ bust as an attempt to erase history.

Critical Analysis:
The installation of Rajaji’s statue and the removal of Lutyens’ bust is symbolic of a broader effort to decolonize national symbols and narratives. The BJP’s support for the move aligns with their nationalist agenda, while the differing reactions within the opposition INDIA bloc reflect the complex and sometimes conflicting views on India’s historical legacy. Shashi Tharoor’s support, despite being a Congress MP, indicates a recognition of Rajaji’s significant contributions and values that transcend party lines.

Key Takeaways:

  • The event underscores the ongoing debate about India’s colonial past and its representation in national symbols.
  • The differing reactions highlight the ideological divisions within the Indian political landscape.
  • The installation of Rajaji’s bust is a symbolic gesture towards prioritizing Indian historical figures and narratives.
  • The event brings Rajaji’s values of liberal economics, social justice, and constitutional rights back into the public discourse.

Impact Analysis:

This event has the potential to further fuel the debate about India’s identity and its relationship with its colonial past. The focus on Rajaji’s values could influence policy discussions on economic liberalism, social justice, and constitutional rights. The replacement of colonial-era symbols with Indian figures is likely to continue, shaping the landscape of national memory and historical representation in the years to come. The differing opinions expressed by political figures suggest this issue will remain a point of contention and political maneuvering.

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