Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President Sunny Joseph, MLA, has sharply criticized the central government's decision to rename the 'Nehru Yuva Kendra' as 'Mera Yuva Bharat.' In a statement released on Thursday, Joseph condemned the move, calling it part of the Sangh Parivar’s broader agenda to establish a religious state. Joseph highlighted the recent naming of a skill development center in Palakkad, governed by the BJP, after RSS founder Hedgewar, suggesting it aligns with the same ideological thrust.
He argued that any effort to erase the legacy of the nation's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is a dangerous step towards fascism. "Attempts are being made to undermine Nehru's ideals and contributions to the nation. Regardless of how history is edited or names changed, Nehru's pivotal role as a nation-builder cannot be erased," Joseph asserted. Adding his voice to the opposition, CPI(M) MP A A Rahim wrote to Union Minister for Youth Affairs, Mansukh Mandaviya, expressing his strong objection to the renaming decision.
Rahim underscored the significant role of the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), established in 1972, in organizing rural youth for nation-building, leadership development, and community engagement. Rahim criticized the rebranding as a continuation of the government's renaming spree and suggested that it ignores the NYKS's historical importance. He urged the Ministry to reconsider its decision and retain the original name to honor the institution’s legacy and values.
The renaming of Nehru Yuva Kendra has sparked widespread debate, with critics viewing it as an attempt to marginalize Nehru's legacy in India's history.