Demand to Rename Salem Railway Junction or Airport After Veteran Leader T M Kaliyannan

Demand Raised to Rename Salem Rail Junction or Airport After Veteran Leader T M Kaliyannan

Political leaders, Congress representatives, and members of Kongu-based organisations have urged the Union government to rename either the Salem Railway Junction or the Salem airport in honour of T M Kaliyannan . The appeal was made during the commemoration of his 105th birth anniversary in Namakkal, with speakers highlighting his principled public life and enduring contributions to India’s democratic institutions.

Birth Anniversary Commemoration in Namakkal

Leaders from the Congress party and regional organisations gathered in Namakkal to pay floral tributes to Kaliyannan’s portrait. The event marked 105 years since his birth and revisited his role during formative phases of India’s parliamentary democracy. Speakers recalled him as a leader known for integrity, restraint, and commitment to constitutional values in both state and national politics.

A Record of Public Service

T M Kaliyannan was a member of the Provisional Parliament of India and later represented citizens in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly as well as the Legislative Council. Over the course of his career, he handled responsibilities at multiple levels of governance and earned respect for maintaining ethical standards in public office. Political leaders described his life as an example of disciplined leadership and accountability in democratic practice.

Proposal to Rename Major Public Infrastructure

Raising the demand formally, Namakkal MP V S Matheswaran said that renaming a prominent public landmark would be an appropriate tribute to Kaliyannan’s legacy. He suggested that either the Salem Railway Junction or the Salem Airport be renamed in his honour. Matheswaran also announced plans to raise the matter in Parliament, seeking approval from the Centre.

Political Support and Institutional Process

Leaders including Tamil Nadu Congress Committee spokesperson P V Senthil voiced support for the proposal. They argued that naming public institutions after leaders of integrity helps preserve democratic memory and inspire future generations. The proposal now awaits parliamentary discussion and consideration by the Union ministries overseeing railways and civil aviation.

Key Exam-Focused Points

• The Provisional Parliament of India functioned from 1950 to 1952 .

• Renaming railway stations and airports requires Union government approval .

• Tamil Nadu has a long tradition of naming public institutions after notable leaders.

• Salem is a major transport and economic hub in western Tamil Nadu.