Controversy erupts as boards renaming Sonari, Bistupur roundabouts after Jaipal Singh Munda installed in Jamshedpur

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Jan 3: A fresh wave of controversy erupted in Jamshedpur after members of Birsa Sena on Friday evening descended on the Bistupur main roundabout and Sonari airport chowk, demanding that it be renamed in honour of Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda.

The group, which gathered at the roundabout, forcefully insisted that the location be dedicated to the tribal leader, leading to a standoff with local authorities.

The Birsa Sena activists argued that there was no existing roundabout named after Jaipal Singh Munda and insisted on naming the Bistupur roundabout after him.

“This land belongs to the tribals. According to the Fifth Schedule, this land is part of tribal territory and the law of self-governance should apply here,” stated one of the protesters.

Birsa Sena installed board at Sonari Airport Chowk, renaming it Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Chowk.

They further emphasized that it would be illegal to remove the name once it had been assigned to the roundabout.

Tensions escalated as the activists began chanting slogans, drawing the attention of both Tata Steel security officers and Bistupur police. Upon arrival, the authorities engaged in talks with the protesters, urging them to seek proper permission before undertaking any such actions.

“If any work needs to be done, it must be done after obtaining the necessary permissions,” a security officer stated, trying to mediate the situation.

Despite these warnings, the protestors remained resolute, citing the lack of a roundabout in Jaipal Singh Munda’s name as the reason for their actions.

The situation caused a temporary deadlock on the road, disrupting traffic as both sides continued to argue.

As of now, the matter remains unresolved, and the authorities are expected to take further steps to address the situation.

The incident has raised questions about the growing trend of renaming public spaces after notable figures from various communities in the city.