Pune Railway Station Renaming Row Intensifies as BJP MP Medha Kulkarni Breaks Down Over Shiv Sena Poster Attack

Pune, 27th June 2025: The controversy over the proposed renaming of Pune Railway Station after Maratha leader Thorle Bajirao Peshwa escalated in Pune, with BJP MP Medha Kulkarni becoming emotional during a press conference following a poster campaign by the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray). Kulkarni, who has been at the forefront of the demand to rename the station to honor Bajirao Peshwa’s legacy, was moved to tears when questioned about derogatory posters targeting her in the city.

The dispute began after Kulkarni’s formal request to rename Pune Railway Station, citing the city’s deep-rooted historical connection to the Maratha Empire and Bajirao’s pivotal role in expanding its reach. She argued that naming the station after Bajirao would highlight Pune’s rich cultural heritage and educate future generations about its illustrious past. However, her proposal triggered a wave of political reactions, with alternative suggestions emerging, including calls to name the station after social reformers like Mahatma Jyotiba Phule or Rajmata Jijau.

In response to Kulkarni’s demand, Shiv Sena (UBT) activists put up provocative banners suggesting that if renaming is so important, the Budhwar Peth area should be renamed ‘Mastani Peth’, referencing Bajirao’s wife Mastani. These posters, seen as a personal attack, were later removed but not before intensifying the political climate in Pune.

At a meeting with Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner, Kulkarni expressed her distress over the incident, stating that everyone has the right to express their opinion but personal attacks, especially against women in politics, are unacceptable. She reiterated her request for action against those responsible for the posters and emphasized her belief in the right to political participation for women.