Washington, 16 September (H.S.): The dispute over President Donald Trump's name at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts intensified on Tuesday, after Trump warned that planned renovation work could be halted if the courts do not overturn a ruling against the naming change.

The development followed a decision by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper, who said the Kennedy Center's board cannot place Trump's name on the institution without authorization from Congress.

The ruling came as the Kennedy Center moved ahead with plans to close its main building for a major renovation. The project has been estimated to cost about $257 million and could take roughly two years. Center officials have said the work is necessary because of safety and maintenance problems affecting the ageing complex.

Trump, who became chairman of the Kennedy Center board after appointing a number of new members, has made the naming dispute a central issue in the institution's future. He has argued that extensive repairs are needed and indicated that he does not want the renovation to proceed while the court's decision remains in effect.

The legal conflict stems from the Kennedy Center's status as a national memorial to former President John F. Kennedy. Because the institution was created through federal legislation, the court has focused on whether its governing board has the legal power to change its name or add permanent tributes without congressional approval.

Judge Cooper's latest decision followed an earlier order concerning Trump's name on the building. Workers removed the name from the exterior in June after the court intervened.

The Kennedy Center board had nevertheless pursued further plans to associate Trump's name with the complex. Among the proposals was signage referring to the president's role in renovating and restoring the facility. These efforts prompted additional legal action.

The condition of the Kennedy Center has also become a point of disagreement. Supporters of the renovation have cited maintenance concerns, including an incident in which part of a ceiling reportedly fell after severe weather. Critics have disputed aspects of the administration's description of the building's condition and questioned the circumstances surrounding the planned closure.

The controversy has affected the centre's cultural programme as well. A number of performers have cancelled or relocated appearances following changes in the institution's leadership, adding to concerns about its finances and operations.

For now, the Kennedy Center faces two overlapping disputes: how to address its reported infrastructure needs and whether Trump's name can legally be incorporated into the federally established memorial.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar