Demand to Rename Salem Junction or Airport After T M Kaliyannan

Political leaders and members of Congress and Kongu organisations have urged the Centre to rename either the Salem Railway Junction or the Salem airport after veteran leader T M Kaliyannan. The demand was raised during the observance of his 105th birth anniversary in Namakkal, highlighting his long and unblemished public life and contributions to democratic institutions.

Birth Anniversary Observed in Namakkal

Leaders from the Congress party and regional organisations gathered to pay floral tributes to the portrait of T M Kaliyannan. The event marked 105 years since his birth and recalled his role in public life during crucial phases of India’s early parliamentary history. Speakers described him as a principled leader who upheld integrity in both state and national politics.

Kaliyannan’s Political Legacy

T M Kaliyannan served as a member of the Provisional Parliament of India and later represented the people in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council. He held several responsibilities at the state and national levels and was widely regarded for maintaining clean political practices. Leaders said his career stood as an example of public service rooted in discipline and accountability.

Call for Renaming Key Infrastructure

Namakkal MP V S Matheswaran stated that renaming a major public landmark would be a fitting tribute to Kaliyannan’s contributions. He said the proposal to rename Salem Railway Junction or the Salem airport would honour a leader known for untainted public life. Matheswaran also announced his intention to formally raise the issue in Parliament, seeking the Centre’s approval for the change.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Provisional Parliament functioned from 1950 to 1952 before the first general elections.
• Renaming of railway stations and airports requires approval from the Union government.
• Tamil Nadu has a history of naming public institutions after prominent political leaders.
• Salem is a major transport hub in western Tamil Nadu.

Political Support and Next Steps

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee spokesperson Dr P V Senthil and other leaders echoed support for the proposal, stressing that public remembrance through institutional naming helps preserve democratic values. The demand now awaits parliamentary discussion and subsequent consideration by the Union ministries concerned with civil aviation and railways.