Mumbai – A political storm is brewing after Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said it was a “good thing” that IIT Bombay retained the name “Bombay” instead of changing it to “Mumbai”. The remarks were made during an event at IIT Bombay’s P. C. Saxena Auditorium on Monday, where the minister was addressing students on quantum science, medical technology integration, and India’s innovation landscape.
Commenting on the institute’s historic nomenclature, Dr. Singh stated, “I am happy that you have kept Bombay in the name of IIT and not changed it to Mumbai. I have the same feelings about IIT Madras too.” The statement immediately drew murmurs inside the hall.
Observers noted that the comments came at a politically sensitive time, with Mumbai gearing up for Municipal Corporation elections. In a region where the “Marathi vs non-Marathi” identity issue continues to dominate political discourse, the minister’s remarks appeared to create visible discomfort among parts of the audience. Eyewitnesses say there was a subtle sense of displeasure in the hall, with some audience members reacting sharply to the reference.
Political analysts say this development may deepen the ongoing debate over legacy names, identity politics, language loyalty, and colonial terminology. Supporters of the minister’s view argue that IIT Bombay’s name has global brand value, and changing it could dilute reputation and recognition. However, cultural activists and opposition leaders claim that preference for “Bombay” over “Mumbai” disrespects the linguistic sentiments of the Marathi community.
The institute itself has not issued a statement on the matter.
With political temperatures rising and identity-based rhetoric sharpening ahead of elections, the minister’s remarks may further inflame ideological divisions linked to heritage naming and cultural identity in Mumbai.
