Proposal to Rename Badarpur as Siddheshwar Dham Gains Momentum

Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha, the MLA from Katigorah, has proposed renaming Badarpur to Siddheshwar Dham, highlighting its significance in faith and cultural identity. The proposal has been forwarded to the Urban Development Department for consideration. Purkayastha emphasizes that while a name change alone won't bring development, it plays a vital role in shaping the community's identity and emotional connection to their heritage. He also defends the proposal against political motivations, asserting that it reflects the aspirations of the people. The MLA critiques the previous Congress government for neglecting cultural issues, stating that under the current leadership, these aspirations are finally being acknowledged.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 18:37 IST

Significance of the Name Change Proposal

File image of Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha with CM Sarma. (Photo:@KamalakhyaMLA/X)

Silchar, June 1: Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha, the MLA from Katigorah, has proposed a significant name change for Badarpur town to Siddheshwar Dham, emphasizing that this initiative is rooted in faith, heritage, and cultural identity rather than merely an administrative formality.

Purkayastha has submitted this proposal to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has directed the Urban Development Department to review it according to the established procedures.

He stated, "The Siddheshwar temple is more than just a religious site for Badarpur; it serves as an emotional and spiritual hub for the entire Barak Valley. I appreciate that the Chief Minister has referred this matter to the Urban Development Department. Ultimately, the Assam Government will make the final decision," Purkayastha shared.

While discussing the proposal, Purkayastha acknowledged that changing a name alone does not guarantee development, but he believes it plays a crucial role in shaping identity, emotions, and the overall atmosphere of a location. He expressed that the new name would foster a positive perception of the area and reinforce the connection between the community and their cultural heritage.

Addressing claims that this initiative was politically motivated following his recent electoral success, the MLA asserted that his role as a representative includes advocating for both development and cultural dignity.

He recognized that there might be some opposition to the proposal but expressed confidence that those who value Indian civilization and spiritual heritage would appreciate the underlying sentiment of Siddheshwar Dham. "Those who respect Indian civilization, culture, and spiritual heritage will understand the sentiment behind Siddheshwar Dham," he remarked.

In a politically charged statement, Purkayastha criticized the previous Congress administration in Assam, suggesting that cultural and faith-related aspirations were often overlooked during their tenure. He stated, "For many years, the cultural and faith-related aspirations of the populace were not given the attention they warranted. Under the previous Congress regime, appeals related to Indian civilization, local faith, Sanatan heritage, and the emotional identity of the people were frequently disregarded. However, today, under Chief Minister Sarma's leadership, these long-standing cultural aspirations are being taken seriously and respected."