A G20 invitation letter from President Droupadi Murmu, which mentioned her as the ‘President of Bharat’ instead of ‘President of India,’ sparked off a debate in political circles and social media about whether the country’s name is about to be changed, and whether it is a practical or political decision.
The invitation was sent to dignitaries in India and the heads of state of participating countries.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited Indonesia to participate in the ASEAN summit, and the communication mentioned him as the Prime Minister of Bharat.
India or Bharat?
While Bharat is another official name for India, it has not been widely used by government organizations. The country’s official telecommunication and broadband provider, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, is a rare example.
The country is named India in passports, educational institutions, and even the central government jobs.
As President Murmu’s G20 invitation set off a hot debate, the ruling BJP leaders linked the name ‘India’ with colonialism. The opposition leaders, however, suggested that their newly formed alliance, INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), has unnerved the BJP.
Parliament will convene from Sep 18 to Sep 22 to conduct a special session, possibly at the newly constructed building. The agenda is undisclosed.