Expanding Horizons: Rajasthan's Journey to 50 Districts and 10 Divisions

Jaipur— Rajasthan has recently undergone a significant transformation in its administrative landscape with the creation of 19 new districts and three divisions. This expansion has brought the total count to 50 districts and 10 divisions. Notably, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot played a pivotal role in this development, virtually inaugurating the new districts through a series of impactful ceremonies on Monday. Prayers and yagnas were organised in the newly carved district headquarters attended by the Ministers in charge of their respective districts. However, these changes have not come without their share of controversies and challenges, as they have sparked discussions and opposition within the state.

The inauguration of the Shahpura district, carved out of Bhilwara, was marred by strong opposition from the local population. This opposition escalated to the point where the police had to resort to using force to control the situation, resulting in injuries to 12 individuals. The root of the opposition seems to stem from concerns over the removal of mines from the newly established district.

Particular contention has arisen regarding the demarcation of the Hurda and Gulabpura areas, which protesters strongly oppose being included in Bhilwara. The Shahpura Sangharsh Samiti and various organizations held peaceful protests outside the Government College during the district expansion program. When cabinet minister Mahesh Joshi arrived at the event, he was met with black flags and the protest later escalated, leading to police intervention. The situation turned more hostile as protesters attempted to breach the venue, resulting in clashes with law enforcement. Over 12 people were injured and taken to Bhilwara for medical attention.

Altered administrative landscape of the state

Amidst the challenges, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot conducted the inauguration ceremonies of the new districts through video conference from the Birla Auditorium. In preparation for this milestone, Gehlot performed religious rituals. Additionally, Revenue Minister Ramlal Jat also attended the inauguration ceremonies via video conference.

The expansion of districts has altered the administrative landscape of Rajasthan. Previously, there were 33 districts and seven divisions, but now 19 new districts have been introduced. While initially the plan included the creation of Jaipur North, Jaipur South, Jodhpur North, and Jodhpur South districts, due to public protests, Jaipur and Jodhpur districts were kept intact, with Jaipur Rural and Jodhpur Rural emerging as the newly established districts.

These are the newly formed districts: Anupgarh, Balotra, Beawar, Kekri, Jaipur Rural, Dudu, Kotputli-Behror, Neem Ka Thana, Khairthal-Tijara, Sanchore, Didwana-Kuchaman, Shahpura, Jodhpur Rural, Phalodi, Salumber, Gangapur City, Deeg.

As part of this expansion, IAS and IPS officers have been appointed as Officers on Special Duty (OSD) in the new districts. Their roles have transitioned into that of Collector and Superintendent of Police. Moreover, temporary district-level offices have been established in these new districts.

Udaipur's Salumber Tehsil Ascends to District Status

Former Member of Parliament, Raghuveer Meena, eloquently conveyed that the longstanding aspiration to elevate Salumber to district status has finally come to fruition under the astute leadership of the compassionate Chief Minister Gehlot. With profound gratitude on behalf of the entire Salumber region, he acknowledged the Chief Minister's pivotal role in this accomplishment, foreseeing a future of comprehensive progress and advancement for Salumber as a result of this district's formation.

Prominent figures from the Muslim community, including Yamin Qadri and Ishaq Momani from the Bohra Samaj, alongside Prakashanandji Maharaj, took a moment to extend their sincere gratitude to the government. They enthusiastically endorsed their support for the district's establishment and raised spirited slogans of "Salumber Zindabad," symbolizing their shared enthusiasm for the positive transformation on the horizon.

Gracing the occasion, Salumber District Collector Pratap Singh conveyed greetings to all in attendance, heralding the inauguration of Salumber as the first district in its region. He proceeded to read out the official notification, emphasizing how the state government's decision to honor the sacred legacy of Hadi Rani through the district's creation has elevated the state's pride to greater heights. Subdivision Officer Surendra B Patidar then extended a gracious vote of thanks, culminating the program on a note of gratitude and unity.

The chairman of the new districts committee, Ramlubhaya said it is indeed surprising that 19 districts have been created and that such an achievement was unforeseen. He acknowledged the challenges arising from pending demands for new districts and assured that reasonable requests would be considered by the committee.

The creation of new districts is seen as an effort by the Gehlot government to reshape the political landscape, especially as elections approach. By addressing long-standing demands for districts such as Beawar, Kotputli-Behror, Neem Ka Thana, Balotra, Didwana-Kuchaman, and Phalodi, the government aims to garner popular support in the election year.

The inauguration ceremonies of these districts have incorporated a blend of Vedic rituals and practices from various religions. These ceremonies have been structured to communicate messages beyond the administrative changes, encapsulating the cultural and spiritual diversity of the region.

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