In response to mounting controversy surrounding the naming of two lions, the Calcutta High Court has instructed the West Bengal government to reconsider the names “Akbar” and “Sita” for the animals, emphasizing the need to avoid religious and historical sensitivities.
The directive came during a hearing on a petition filed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), urging the renaming of a lioness recently transferred to West Bengal from Tripura. The court, presided over by Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya, expressed concerns over the choice of names for the lions, which were placed in the same enclosure at the Bengal Safari Park in Siliguri.
Questioning the rationale behind naming the animals after religious or historical figures, Justice Bhattacharyya emphasized the need for sensitivity in naming practices. He challenged the state’s decision to adopt names that could potentially spark controversy and urged the government to reconsider its approach.
The Additional Advocate General representing West Bengal informed the court that the lions were named in Tripura and assured that the state was already contemplating renaming them. However, Justice Bhattacharyya reiterated the importance of avoiding controversy and emphasized the need for a neutral approach in naming the animals.
Addressing the issue of naming animals after revered figures, Justice Bhattacharyya highlighted the secular nature of the state and underscored the importance of maintaining harmony and respect for all communities. He urged authorities to refrain from naming animals after religious or historical figures to prevent potential offense.
In an exchange during the hearing, Justice Bhattacharyya also queried the AAG about his stance on naming pets after national heroes, further emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding the issue.
The court has reclassified the VHP petition as a public interest litigation (PIL) and transferred it to a regular bench equipped to handle PIL matters. This move reflects the significance of the issue and underscores the court’s commitment to addressing public concerns regarding the naming of the lions.
As the debate over the names “Akbar” and “Sita” continues to unfold, the court’s intervention underscores the need for sensitivity and inclusivity in naming practices, particularly in public spaces where diverse communities coexist.
Sources By Agencies
