Mumbai: Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut welcomed the Maharashtra government’s decision to initiate the process of restoring Veer Savarkar’s barrister degree, but stated that the freedom fighter deserves even greater recognition. “If they are restoring Veer Savarkar's barrister degree, then we welcome this. However, we also demand that Bharat Ratna be awarded to him,” Raut said during a press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Raut’s remarks came a day after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the government’s plan to begin official correspondence with British authorities to reclaim Savarkar’s withheld barrister degree. The announcement was made on the eve of the virtual inauguration of the Swatantryaveer Savarkar Study and Research Centre at the University of Mumbai’s Fort campus. The event was presided over by Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan.
State's Push To Restore Savarkar's Barrister Degree
Savarkar, who completed his legal studies at Gray’s Inn in London, was denied the title of barrister because he refused to pledge allegiance to the British Crown, an act seen as a bold stance of defiance during India’s freedom struggle. “This was not just an injustice to his intellect but a testament to his unwavering patriotism,” said Fadnavis, adding that the university has been directed to prepare a detailed dossier to support the case.
The University of Mumbai also proposed a Rs 100 crore grant to develop the research centre at its Kalina campus. The centre will serve as a hub for academic exploration of Savarkar’s ideology, writings, and social reform efforts. It will offer educational programmes from certificate to doctoral levels and will include a museum, a statue of Savarkar, and an auditorium for scholarly and cultural events.
Vice-Chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni announced an additional initiative inspired by Savarkar’s belief in linguistic pride. “All science and technology textbooks will be translated into Marathi within the next two years,” he said.
Governor Radhakrishnan praised Savarkar’s legacy, particularly his opposition to caste discrimination and religious orthodoxy. “He considered untouchability a sin and fought for temple entry rights for Dalits. Even Dr B. R. Ambedkar acknowledged his commitment to social justice,” he said.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by ministers Chandrakant Patil and Ashish Shelar, MLAs Atul Bhatkhalkar and Parag Alvani, and senior university officials.
