Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on Tuesday a proposal by his government to rename Fazilnagar in the Kushinagar district to “Pavagarh,” in honor of Lord Mahavir.
Addressing a gathering during the inauguration and foundation-laying ceremony of 278 development projects—worth over ₹424 crore—in Kushinagar, Yogi stated, “We have sent a proposal to rename this place. From now on, it will no longer be known as Fazilnagar, but as Pavagarh. It will be recognized by the name of Lord Mahavir.”
The Fazilnagar Assembly seat is currently represented by BJP MLA Surendra Kushwaha. Prior to this, the seat was won by BJP MLA Ganga Kushwaha in 2012 and again in 2017.
Taking aim at previous governments, Adityanath alleged that prior to 2022, instead of focusing on the development of areas like Tamkuhi Raj and Fazilnagar, they were turned into subjects of ridicule.
Commending the local representatives, the Chief Minister remarked that the demands of the people are being fulfilled through the coordinated efforts of the area’s MLA and MP.
Emphasizing the BJP government’s commitment to development and cultural heritage, Yogi asserted that development is only possible when people elect capable representatives.
He stated, “The government possesses a vision for development. Development has been realized because you elected good public representatives.”
Adityanath also made mention of the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, describing it as a historic achievement. He noted that nearly five centuries have elapsed since the temple at Lord Ram’s birthplace was allegedly demolished by a foreign invader.
“Many generations passed, yet the nation remained emotionally connected to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement,” he said. “The construction of the grand Ram Temple gained momentum only after the BJP’s ‘double-engine’ government came to power.” Criticizing the opposition parties, the Chief Minister alleged that the Congress and the Samajwadi Party had obstructed efforts to construct the temple.
He charged, “After independence, the Congress could have facilitated the construction of the temple, but it failed to do so. The Samajwadi Party—which openly opposes Lord Ram—also created hurdles in the process.” Recalling the slogan of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Adityanath affirmed that the BJP remains fully committed to the resolve expressed by the devotees: “Ram Lalla, we shall come; the temple, we shall build right there.”
Public representatives, government officials, and local residents attended the event, where the Chief Minister once again reiterated the government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, cultural revival, and public welfare in eastern Uttar Pradesh.