Surat: A large white cloth now covers the signboard at the entrance of a newly constructed wholesale fish market in Surat after a controversy erupted over the use of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s name without formal civic approval.
The market in the Nanpura-Lakkadkot area had been identified on the board as the ‘Shree Narendra Modi Wholesale Fish Market’, accompanied by the Prime Minister’s photograph. The Rs 3.9-crore facility was constructed by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC).
Signboard sparks objections
The naming triggered objections from a section of local traders and representatives of the Kahar-Maachi community. They questioned how the Prime Minister’s name could be displayed on a municipal facility without an official resolution or approval from the civic authorities.
Some traders also argued that naming a wholesale fish market after Modi, who is known for following a vegetarian lifestyle, was inappropriate.
The SMC clarified that the official naming process had not been completed and that no formal resolution approving the name had been passed.
Market association defends proposal
The Surat Fish Merchant Association defended the proposed name, saying it was intended to acknowledge the Centre’s support for the fisheries sector.
Association president Kalpesh Navsariwala cited initiatives including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and said the proposal was meant as a tribute to the Prime Minister’s contribution to the fishing community.
The association has now submitted a formal request to the municipal authorities seeking approval to name the market after Modi.
White cloth covers board
Following the backlash, civic officials inspected the site and the market association agreed to cover the signboard in the presence of municipal officials. The white cloth will remain over the board for the time being.
The proposed name will now depend on the formal decision of the Surat Municipal Corporation. Until then, the Prime Minister’s name and photograph will remain hidden from public view.