Daijiworld Media Network - Bicholim

Bicholim, Feb 2: In a move seen as a progressive step towards inclusive governance, the Bicholim Municipal Council has approved a landmark resolution to rename two wards in its jurisdiction that earlier carried caste-specific titles, setting a possible precedent for other local bodies in Goa.

The decision was taken at a special council meeting held last week, chaired by council chairperson Vijay Kumar Natekar, in the presence of Chief Officer Nehal Talawanekar. After detailed deliberations, the council unanimously resolved to change the names of the two localities.

Accordingly, the area in Ward No. 10, earlier known as Dhangarwado, will now be called Kulanwado, while the locality in Ward No. 3, previously known as Harijanwado, has been renamed Rashtroli Nagar.

The municipal council stated that the decision is in line with government rules and recommendations of the Human Rights Commission, which advocate the removal of caste references from locality names to promote equality and dignity.

Officials said the resolution will be forwarded to all concerned state government departments, the Election Commission and other relevant authorities for approval. New signboards bearing the revised names will be installed promptly once the state government gives its nod.

Councillors welcomed the move, describing it as an important step towards equality, social harmony and a modern civic identity. The renaming proposal was discussed in detail before being unanimously approved at the meeting.

During the same meeting, the council also reviewed ongoing and proposed development works in the city. Preparations for the upcoming municipal elections, expected to be held in April, were discussed, while certain council expenditures were cleared and the annual budget for the coming year was examined at length.

Deputy chairperson Deepa Pal and councillors Kundan Phalari, Rajaram Gaonkar, Sudan Govekar, Nilesh Tople, Aniket Chanekar, Gunjan Korgaonkar, Deepa Shirgaonkar, Ranjana Wangankar and Aparna Fogeri were present at the meeting.

Emphasising the broader significance of the decision, the council said the renaming exercise reflects its commitment to egalitarian values and inclusive civic administration, and is expected to encourage similar initiatives by other municipal bodies across the state.