MLA Purnesh Modi Renames Area; Local Residents’ Aadhaar Cards and Documents to Be Updated

Surat. Ahead of Independence Day, a long-standing demand in Surat’s Ramnagar area has been fulfilled. A neighborhood previously known as ‘Pakistani Mohalla’ has now been renamed ‘Hindustani Mohalla.’ Today, local MLA Purnesh Modi unveiled the new signboard, sparking celebrations among residents.

MLA Purnesh Modi explained that before India’s partition, a large number of people from the Hindu community migrated from Sindh province (now in Pakistan) and settled here. This led to the area being called ‘Pakistani Mohalla.’ However, growing resentment toward Pakistan and local residents’ discomfort with the name had fueled demands for a change in recent years.

Modi stated that in 2018, when he was the ruling party leader in Surat Municipal Corporation, he had proposed renaming the area. The municipal cultural committee passed a resolution that year to change the name to ‘Hindustani Mohalla,’ but implementation was delayed until now.

The renaming is not just symbolic. The MLA assured that under the ‘Seva Setu Program,’ residents’ Aadhaar cards and other government documents will also be updated to reflect ‘Hindustani Mohalla.’ This change will help locals avoid identity-related inconveniences.

Pakistani Mohalla

“Pakistani Mohalla” (also called “Pakistan Wala Mohalla”) is a historic neighborhood in Delhi, India, known for its cultural ties to the Partition of 1947. It was settled by Muslim migrants who arrived from newly formed Pakistan, bringing their distinct traditions, cuisine, and Urdu language. Today, it remains a vibrant enclave reflecting the shared heritage and complex history of India and Pakistan.

Hindustani Mohalla

Hindustani Mohalla, located in Lahore, Pakistan, is a historic neighborhood known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional arts. Established during the Mughal era, it became a hub for musicians, poets, and artisans, particularly in classical music and Urdu literature. Today, it remains a vibrant center of South Asian culture, preserving centuries-old traditions in crafts, music, and storytelling.

Surat Municipal Corporation

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) is the governing civic body responsible for the administration of Surat, a major city in Gujarat, India. Established in 1852 during British rule, it oversees urban infrastructure, public services, and development initiatives. Surat, historically known as a key port and trade center, has grown under SMC into a modern metropolis renowned for its diamond and textile industries.

Seva Setu Program

The **Seva Setu Program** is an initiative by the Indian state of Gujarat aimed at providing government services and welfare schemes directly to rural and underserved communities. Launched in 2016, it operates through mobile camps that bring administrative, healthcare, and social services to villages, improving accessibility and efficiency. The program reflects Gujarat’s efforts to bridge gaps in governance and ensure inclusive development.