Pune, 12th August 2023: While the Chandni Chowk multi-layer flyover was inaugurated with much anticipation by Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, a unique protest unfolded simultaneously by the Change India Foundation, involving bottles of liquor and beer.
In the vicinity of Chandni Chowk in Pune, the Change India Foundation orchestrated a symbolic protest, adorning the area with liquor and beer bottles, to advocate for the renaming of the newly inaugurated bridge to NDA Bridge.
Sachin Dhankude, one of the protestors, expressed the rationale behind the movement. He argued that the name “Chandni” lacks historical significance, unlike the esteemed National Defence Academy (NDA), which is a source of pride for the people of Pune. With only two such academies in the country, the NDA holds special importance. Dhankude’s protest aimed to spotlight this disparity and initiate a conversation about renaming the bridge to align with the city’s sense of identity and history.
The protest saw active participation from Puneites, with many signing the petition to support the cause. The demonstration emphasizes the passion that residents have for their city’s heritage and institutions, and their desire to see them rightfully recognized in prominent landmarks like the newly inaugurated bridge.
