The Maharashtra government has renamed the Versova-Bandra Sea Link as Veer Savarkar Setu. Mumbai Trans Harbor Link has also been renamed as Atal Bihari Vajpayee Smriti Nhava Sheva Atal Setu.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had last month announced that the upcoming Bandra-Versova sea link in Mumbai would be named after Hindutva ideologue late VD Savarkar.
He had further mentioned that a state level gallantry award similar to the one given by the central government would also be named after the freedom fighter.
Speaking on the occasion of Savarkar’s birth anniversary on May 28, the chief minister had said, “The upcoming Bandra-Versova sealink will be named after Swatantryaveer Savarkar. On the lines of Central Government’s Gallantry Awards, Maharashtra Government will also institute Swatantryaveer Savarkar Gallantry Awards.
PM Modi paid tribute to Savarkar
During the 101st ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast held earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Savarkar on his birth anniversary, praising the Hindutva ideologue for his strong character and unwavering commitment to freedom.
Modi highlighted that Savarkar’s fearless and self-respecting nature was incompatible with a mindset of subordination. The Prime Minister also emphasized that the sacrifice, courage and determination of Savarkar is an enduring source of inspiration for all.
“The personality of Veer Savarkar radiated strength and magnanimity. His fearless and self-respecting nature could not tolerate the mentality of slavery at all. What Veer Savarkar did not only in the freedom movement but also for social equality and social justice is remembered even today.