In a significant decision, Honourable President Droupadi Murmu has given her approval to the renaming of the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) to the Prime Ministers' Museum. This move reflects a shift in the institution's focus towards commemorating the legacy of all Prime Ministers who have served the nation.
With this renaming, the institution is now officially known as the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library (PMML) Society. However, this decision has sparked controversy, with the Congress party accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of attempting to diminish the Nehruvian legacy.
The opposition party asserts that despite what they view as a relentless campaign to undermine Nehru's contributions, his legacy will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed his thoughts on the matter through a post on X, stating, "Today marks the renaming of an iconic institution. The world-renowned Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) is now known as PMML - Prime Ministers' Memorial Museum and Library." Ramesh further criticized Prime Minister Modi, saying, "Modi's actions reflect a narrow focus on denying, distorting, defaming, and dismantling Nehru and the Nehruvian legacy."
Ramesh added humorously, "He (Modi) has replaced 'N' with 'P,' where 'P' stands for pettiness and peeve."
Despite the ongoing debate, Nehru's substantial contributions to the freedom movement and his pivotal role in shaping India's democratic, secular, scientific, and liberal foundations are recognized by many. Some believe that these foundations are now facing challenges under the current government.
As the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library begins its new chapter, it remains to be seen how this institution will honor the legacies of all the nation's leaders, past and present.
