MLA starts campaign to rename Shakur Basti as ‘Shrirampuram’

Karnail Singh, BJP MLA from the Shakur Basti Assembly constituency, has launched a campaign to rename the area as ‘Shrirampuram’, claiming the proposed name better reflects the region’s cultural and religious identity. Singh, who represents the constituency in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, said the present name ‘Shakur Basti’ no longer aligns with the changing character of the locality.

“It was called ‘Basti’ earlier. Now, there are huge buildings, well-paved streets and vibrant markets. The name ‘Shrirampuram’ matches the aspirations and cultural sentiments of the people living here today,” he said.

To build support for the proposal, the BJP MLA has initiated a ‘referendum-like’ campaign, reaching out to local Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and encouraging residents to submit letters endorsing the name change. According to Singh, several RWA members have already extended written support, acknowledging the connection between the new name and the religious faith of a large section of the constituency’s population.

“This is not a political stunt,” Singh said. “The demand has come from the public, and after discussions with local residents, we decided to move ahead with the process. We should not politicise this issue.”

Delhi