Gurugram's satellite town Farrukhnagar to be renamed Shri Ram Nagar

In a move that has triggered fresh political controversy, the Municipal Council of Farrukhnagar — Gurugram’s key satellite town and a major logistics hub — has passed a resolution to rename the historic town as ‘Shri Ram Nagar.’

Farrukhnagar, which currently has some of the highest circle rates in North India, derives its name from Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar and was historically ruled by the Nawabs. Despite this legacy, Municipality chairman Birbal Saini and all councillors unanimously approved the proposal for a name change, arguing the town’s ancient identity predates the Mughals.

“Farrukhnagar has for centuries been known for its Mughal and Nawabi connection. The Vedic history of our town, which was once a key salt producer, has been erased from history and that needs to be revived. We had residents seeking revival of their Vedic identity and name change, so we presented a proposal in the House which was passed unanimously,” Saini told ‘The Tribune’.

During the Municipal Council meeting on Friday, three new names were proposed — Shri Ram Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar and Vedic Nagar. Members debated the options before settling on Shri Ram Nagar.

Councillor Neelam Soni supported the move, saying, “The name Shri Ram Nagar is most appropriate, in keeping with our culture and faith.”

Councillor Devdas Dahiya argued for Ambedkar Nagar as “a symbol of equality,” while several others backed Vedic Nagar. Ultimately, the House approved the name Shri Ram Nagar, amid chants of “Jai Shri Ram.”

Senior Congress leader Aftab Ahmed criticised the decision, calling it an attempt to erase Farrukhnagar’s heritage and alleging political motives.

“Look at sanitation, roads and civic infrastructure. The municipality should be changing this, but they are out changing the name. Will changing the name change the plight of Farrukhnagar? Will it erase the town’s history and lineage?” Ahmed said.

He questioned the Council’s authority as well: “It’s a historic town with a long lineage of Nawabs who have left behind architecture like Sheesh Mahal. Who has granted the power to the local Municipality to do this? CM Saini should step in to check saffronisation of civic bodies and agendas.”

Farrukhnagar Fort was built in 1732 by Faujdar Khan, a Baloch chieftain, the first Nawab of the town and governor under Farrukhsiyar. The town prospered due to its salt trade. Khan constructed the octagonal fort with Mughal architectural features, including five gates, the Sheesh Mahal palace, the Jama Masjid and the Dilli Darwaza (Delhi Gate). Successive Nawabs ruled the region for over 70 years before being defeated by the Jats of Bharatpur.