50 Years Later: Still Waiting for Vasco to ‘Officially’ Become Sambhaji Nagar
50 Years Later: Still Waiting for Vasco to ‘Officially’ Become Sambhaji Nagar – Maybe by the Next Century?
Mormugao, Goa – A renewed demand has surfaced for the official recognition of the name change of Vasco-da-Gama constituency to Sambhaji Nagar. This comes in light of a government notification issued more than five decades ago, on November 20, 1970, by the Revenue Department of Goa, Daman, and Diu (Ref: RD/GAZ/321/70), which explicitly renamed Vasco-da-Gama to Sambhaji.
Despite this official declaration, the change has not been fully implemented across official records, including those maintained by the Election Commission of India. Concerned about this lapse, local resident Nitin Faldessai from Anta Rashtriya Bajrang Dal and members has taken the matter to the Assistant Returning and Revenue Officer (ARRO) / Deputy Collector of Mormugao, urging them to take cognizance and act upon the long-standing issue.
Historical Context and the Government Order
The notification issued in 1970 states:
“The Government of Goa, Daman and Diu is hereby pleased to declare that the locality Vasco-da-Gama, situated in Marmagoa Taluka, shall be named as Sambhaji, with immediate effect.”
This order was signed by J.C. Almeida, Secretary (Revenue), and was published in the official gazette on November 26, 1970. The decision was taken as part of a larger effort to rename places with colonial-era names and reflect indigenous historical figures, in this case, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha ruler.
Current Issue: Name Change Not Reflected in Official Records
Despite the passage of over 50 years, Vasco continues to be referred to by its colonial name in official records, electoral rolls, and government documents. Nitin Faldessai, in his appeal, has urged the authorities to take immediate action by:
- Acknowledging the official name change as per the 1970 government notification.
- Updating electoral rolls, voter ID cards, and other relevant documents to reflect the correct name, Sambhaji Nagar.
- Ensuring all future references in official election-related documents align with the legally designated name.
This request is particularly crucial with upcoming elections, where clarity and accuracy in documentation are paramount.
Political and Social Implications
The delayed implementation of the name change has led to frustration among locals and history enthusiasts who believe that honoring historical figures like Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is essential for preserving India’s rich heritage. Political leaders and social organizations have also weighed in, calling for immediate rectification of official documents.
Many Goans argue that if the government has legally renamed the place, all official institutions, including the Election Commission, Municipal Corporation, and Revenue Department, should recognize and enforce it.
Legal and Administrative Measures
To further strengthen his request, Nitin Faldessai has attached a copy of the 1970 government notification to his letter, emphasizing the need for bureaucratic accountability. The Deputy Collector of Mormugao is now expected to examine the matter and liaise with relevant government bodies to implement the necessary changes.
Public Reaction and Growing Demand for Implementation
The issue has sparked discussions among Vasco’s residents, with many expressing support for the name change. Several local historians have pointed out that renaming places to honor Indian warriors and leaders is a symbolic step in recognizing India’s history beyond the colonial narrative.
Meanwhile, social media platforms have seen an increase in discussions around the topic, with hashtags such as #SambhajiNagarNow, #HonorSambhaji, and #RenameVasco gaining traction. Residents and activists are urging the local administration to take swift action to ensure compliance with the long-standing government order.
Way Forward
With elections approaching and increasing public pressure, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to this demand. Will the name Sambhaji Nagar finally receive official recognition across all government records, or will the colonial legacy of Vasco-da-Gama continue to linger?
Renaming won’t feed people’s belly instead of taking interest on these things n creating confusion n trouble it’s better to help the Indians poor people used like animals during elections, shivaji n sambaji were great heroes n patriotic fought for justice, it’s not nice to use their name to fight among eachother Indians n splitting India weakening it, instead fight for justice for the poor shivaji n sambaji would do it. Most of the Corrupted ministers enjoying the wealth😊