Former Rajasthan minister Rajendra Gudha collapsed outside the Jhunjhunu Collectorate on Monday, 15 June after leading a gruelling 22-kilometre foot march in scorching heat to oppose a proposal to rename Islampur village as Shrirampur. Despite showing signs of heat exhaustion, Gudha refused medical attention and declined hospitalisation.

What Happened at the Collectorate

The protest march began at Islampur on Monday morning and drew a large number of villagers united in opposing the renaming proposal. Upon reaching the Collectorate, Gudha suddenly collapsed on the road amid intense heat and humidity. Supporters immediately rushed to his aid, fanning him with towels and splashing water on his face to revive him.

After regaining composure, Gudha directed his remarks at the administration. 'The administration did not allow us to put up a tent. There is no shade here. How can I sit in comfort when my brothers are standing in 45-degree heat?' he said.

Gudha's Case for Communal Identity

Addressing protesters during the march, Gudha emphasised the village's tradition of communal harmony and argued that renaming it would erase a shared historical identity. Holding the hand of a local resident, he said: 'This is Karma Bhai. He is a Muslim Rajput and I am a Hindu Rajput. We have lived here as brothers for generations. In the history of Shekhawati, Muslims fought alongside Rao Shekha in every battle, and Sufi saint Sheikh Burhan is revered by the community.'

Gudha warned of a precedent he said could not be allowed. 'If they change the village's name today, tomorrow they will change the name of Shekhawati. We will not allow that to happen,' he said.

How the Controversy Began

Surajgarh MLA Rajendra Bhambu reportedly recommended renaming Islampur as Shrirampur and forwarded the proposal to the Chief Minister's Office. The CMO subsequently sought a report from the Jhunjhunu district administration, triggering protests among villagers who launched a campaign against the move.

A delegation of villagers submitted a memorandum to District Collector Arun Garg, accompanied by historical records and documents dating back nearly 200 years — including records from 1897 — to support their claim regarding the village's identity and heritage. Protesters argued the proposed renaming lacked historical justification and disregarded the area's long-standing social and cultural history.

Administration's Response

District Collector Arun Garg confirmed that the administration had received an application seeking the renaming and that the verification process was underway. 'The protesters have submitted old records and documents. Material from all sides will be examined before any decision is taken,' he said.

Garg noted that the renaming process involves multiple stages and approvals — district-level examination, followed by state government consideration, and ultimately, clearance from the Central government. 'No decision will be taken under pressure. The matter will be decided strictly on the basis of facts and available records,' he added.

With the district administration's report still pending and the proposal yet to clear state or central scrutiny, the fate of Islampur's name remains officially undecided.