Siliguri, 15th Feb 2025: The Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) announced plans on Friday to rename Naukaghat More, a major city crossing, in honor of Thakur Panchanan Barma, a revered 19th-century Rajbanshi leader, educator, and social reformer. The proposal, spearheaded by Mayor Gautam Deb, aims to recognize Barma’s enduring legacy and is viewed as a strategic effort to engage the politically influential Rajbanshi community ahead of key elections.
Announcement Amid Anniversary Celebrations
Mayor Deb revealed the decision during the 160th birth anniversary event of Barma, attended by community leaders and residents. “Renaming Naukaghat More after Thakur Panchanan Barma is a tribute to his contributions to education and social justice,” Deb stated. The crossing currently hosts a statue of Barma, installed in 2019, symbolizing his local prominence.
Simultaneously, the Darjeeling district committee of the Rajbanshi Kshatriya Samiti unveiled a second statue of Barma in Leusipokhri, a suburban area, underscoring his cross-regional influence.
Process for Renaming
The proposal will first be reviewed by the SMC’s street naming committee, comprising social workers, cultural representatives, and theater artists. If approved, it will advance to the West Bengal government for final ratification. A civic source confirmed, “This is a procedural step, but given Barma’s stature, we anticipate swift consensus.”
Political Undertones
The Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led civic body’s move aligns with broader efforts to consolidate Rajbanshi support. The community holds electoral sway in nearly half of North Bengal’s 54 Assembly seats, making their votes pivotal. State initiatives, such as naming Cooch Behar’s Thakur Panchanan Barma University and declaring a holiday on his birth anniversary, reflect prior attempts to honor the leader.
A political analyst noted, “TMC is methodically reinforcing its outreach to Rajbanshis. Recognizing cultural icons resonates deeply, especially when tied to tangible gestures like renaming landmarks.”
Barma’s Enduring Legacy
Born in 1862, Barma championed education for marginalized groups and co-founded the Kshatriya Samiti to uplift Rajbanshis socio-politically. His advocacy laid the groundwork for the community’s recognition as a Scheduled Caste, securing affirmative action benefits.
The proposed renaming has sparked enthusiasm among locals. “This acknowledges our history,” said a Rajbanshi resident at the Leusipokhri event. However, critics argue the timing coincides with upcoming panchayat polls, suggesting electoral motives.
Conclusion
As Siliguri awaits the state’s decision, the move highlights the intersection of cultural preservation and political strategy. For the Rajbanshi community, it represents both a tribute to a foundational figure and a test of TMC’s commitment to their aspirations. With North Bengal’s political landscape in flux, such gestures could shape alliances ahead of 2024’s electoral contests.
