A Pakistani court has dismissed a petition by Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation seeking to rename Shadman Chowk Lahore after the freedom fighter and place his statue there. The court upheld the decision of the local corporation, which cited a retired military officer's claim that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary. The foundation plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.
Bhagat Singh's Legacy Ignored in Pakistan: Lahore Court Dismisses Petition for Memorial
In a disappointing setback to the cause of honoring freedom fighters, a Pakistani court has dismissed a petition to rename a Lahore intersection after legendary Indian revolutionary Bhagat Singh.
Background
Bhagat Singh, an iconic figure in the Indian independence movement, was born in 1907 in Punjab (now part of Pakistan). Along with his associates, he carried out several audacious acts of defiance against British rule, including the assassination of a British police officer in 1928. Singh and his comrades were tried and executed by the British in 1931, becoming martyrs for the Indian cause.
In 2021, the Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation, a Lahore-based non-profit organization, filed a petition seeking to rename Shadman Chowk in Lahore after Singh and erect a statue in his memory. However, the Lahore High Court rejected the request in October 2022.
Court's Decision
The court upheld the decision of the Lahore Municipal Corporation, which had cited a claim by a retired military officer that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary. The court found no evidence to support the claim that Singh was a criminal.
Foundation's Response
The Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation expressed disappointment with the court's decision and announced plans to challenge it in the Supreme Court. The foundation argues that Singh was a freedom fighter who fought against oppression and injustice.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why was the petition to rename Shadman Chowk after Bhagat Singh dismissed?
The court upheld the decision of the Lahore Municipal Corporation, which cited a claim that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary.
2. Who made the claim that Singh was a criminal?
A retired military officer made the claim. The court found no evidence to support the claim.
3. What was Bhagat Singh's role in the Indian independence movement?
Singh was a prominent Indian revolutionary who fought against British rule. He carried out several audacious acts of defiance, including the assassination of a British police officer.
4. Why is the Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation challenging the court's decision?
The foundation argues that Singh was a freedom fighter who should be honored for his contributions to the independence movement.
5. What is the significance of a memorial to Bhagat Singh in Lahore?
Lahore is where Singh spent his formative years and is considered a significant site in his life. A memorial in Lahore would serve as a reminder of his legacy and pay tribute to his struggle for freedom.
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