Guwahati: Assam BJP president and Lok Sabha MP Dilip Saikia has requested the railway ministry to name two long-distance trains after revered Vaishnavite saint-reformers Sankardev and Madhavdev.

Saikia made the plea during a debate on grants for the fiscal year 2025-26 under the railway ministry.

The two trains, Guwahati-Delhi-Guwahati and Guwahati-Chennai-Guwahati, may be named in honour of the two saints, recognizing their significant contributions to Assamese society.

Saikia's request comes on the heels of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's announcement to name a prominent Delhi road after Upendranath Brahma, a key figure in the Bodoland movement.

Saikia also said that there was a need for new rail stops and the resumption of services at rail stops that were closed during the pandemic. The development comes as Assam prepares for local body polls this year and Assembly polls next year.