The government in Pakistan’s Punjab province has postponed its initiative to revert the historical names of roads and streets in Lahore due to opposition from extremist groups, as per local reports. Initially planned by the Lahore Heritage Areas Revival, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, the decision faced criticism, particularly from vloggers, who portrayed it as a religious issue. Consequently, the Punjab government has put the renaming plan on hold.
Responding to inquiries, Lahore’s Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ijaz clarified that no final decision had been made regarding the restoration of original names for roads and streets in Lahore. The matter is still under discussion despite earlier approvals from Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz, as well as the issuance of a statement by the CM office.
Over the years, numerous roads and streets in Lahore have undergone renaming, with British-era or Hindu-associated names being replaced by Islamic, Pakistani, or local historical figures. For instance, Queen’s Road was changed to Fatima Jinnah Road, Krishan Nagar to Islampura, and Santnagar to Sunnat Nagar, among other alterations, as reported by Dawn. The renaming trend also extended to areas like Temple Street, Laxmi Chowk, Dharampura, and more, reflecting a shift in nomenclature.
A recent report by a minority rights organization highlighted the escalating persecution faced by religious minorities in Pakistan, emphasizing that it is no longer a hidden issue but a prominent challenge that demands attention. The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM) pointed out the persistent targeted violence, discrimination, and shortcomings in the justice system, indicating a worsening situation for vulnerable communities. The organization cited the US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s findings, underscoring Pakistan’s status as a place where religious beliefs can lead to fatal consequences, urging for urgent action to address the deep-rooted issues.
