Islampur to Shrirampur? Rajasthan Village Divided Over Name Change Proposal

Growing Controversy

A sleepy village in Rajasthan has become the epicentre of a brewing controversy with the move to change the name of the village from Islampur to Shrirampur. The issue has turned heads not only with local residents but among political circles across the state.

Islampur, located around 18 km away from Jhunjhunu city, is famous for its old havelis, narrow lanes and historical character. Life in the village went on as usual up till now. However the suggested name change has become the major talking point, being discussed in homes, shops and public places.

The Proposal

The proposal was floated by BJP MLA Rajendra Bhambhu, who alleged that the village was known as Shrirampur prior to Mughal era. “Many residents want the old name back as a way to connect with the historical identity of the village,” he said. He has confirmed documents are being gathered and verified, but says evidence backing the claim is there.

The proposal was brought into official focus when the office of the Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma sent a communication to the Jhunjhunu District Collector on the matter. The local authorities have started to look into the records and gather information about the history of the village.

Review Underway

Dr Arun Garg, District Collector, said the administration had received representations in favour and against the proposed change. Both sides have made their cases, with documents and arguments to support them, and officials are reviewing the material and preparing a report.

Supporters say the renaming would recognise the village’s historical roots. But opponents say the current name is part of the village’s identity and changing it could create unnecessary division in the community.

Officials stressed that no final decision has been made and the process is in its early stages. Any recommendation to the state government will be based on verified records and established procedures.”

For now, Islampur is a divided village on what it should be in the future: in keeping with the name it has now, or reverting to what some believe was its name in the past? The result will be determined by the result of the ongoing administrative review.