Renaming India: The 'Bharat' Proposal and Its Constitutional Implications

In a significant development, India is currently mulling over a possible name change to "Bharat." The idea has come to light following an official invitation sent to the G20 Heads of State and ministers for a dinner event hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. Interestingly, this invitation was addressed using the title "President of Bharat."

This proposal to rename India is now set to be discussed during a Special Session of Parliament. While it may seem like a mere shift in nomenclature, it carries more significance than meets the eye. The move is seen as a preventive measure to avoid any confusion with the Opposition alliance, known as INDIA. It's noteworthy that previous invitations used the title "President of the Republic of India."

However, as with any political decision, this one hasn't been without its share of criticism and debate. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took a stance against the Modi government's actions, characterizing them as an attack on the Constitution. He remarked, "Mr. Modi can persist in distorting history and dividing India, that is Bharat, which is a Union of States. However, we remain resolute. After all, what is the goal of INDIA parties? It is BHARAT – Bring Harmony, Amity, Reconciliation, And Trust. Judega BHARAT, Jeetega INDIA!"

Ramesh’s comments came shortly after Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat suggested using Bharat instead of India. He stated, “The name of our country has been Bharat for ages. Whatever maybe the language, the name remains the same,” during an event in Guwahati.

He Stated one shlok from Vishnu Puran  - 

उत्तरं यत्समुद्रस्य हिमाद्रेश्चैव दक्षिणम् ।
वर्षं तद् भारतं नाम भारती यत्र संततिः ।।

The country (Varsam) that lies north of the ocean and south of the snowy mountains is called Bharatam; there dwell the descendants of Bharata.

Adding to this discourse, BJP MP Harnath Singh Yadav expressed to the news agency ANI, "There is a widespread demand across the nation for the use of the term 'Bharat' in place of 'India.' The term 'India' was imposed on us by the British, whereas 'Bharat' symbolizes our culture. I advocate for a constitutional amendment to officially incorporate the word 'Bharat'."

This proposed name change, from India to Bharat, is now set to be a subject of intense discussion and deliberation within the Indian political landscape. While some argue it's a matter of cultural identity and historical significance, others perceive it as a political maneuver with implications for the nation's unity and identity. As India, or perhaps soon-to-be Bharat, grapples with this decision, the world watches keenly to see how this significant shift unfolds.