News

Punjab has taken a major step in removing colonial-era terminology by officially renaming the Governor’s residence and office from ‘Raj Bhavan’ to ‘Lok Bhavan’, effective immediately. The notification issued on December 4th places Punjab among the states supporting the Central Government’s ongoing campaign to replace British-influenced names with titles rooted in Indian identity and democratic values.

The change signifies a powerful symbolic shift—replacing the word ‘Raj’, associated with rule and monarchy, with ‘Lok’, representing the people. This aligns with the Centre’s broader effort to promote a governance culture based on seva (service) and kartavya (duty), reflecting what officials have termed “cognitive decolonisation.”

Governor Gulab Chand Kataria expressed full support for the transition, noting that the new name highlights the spirit of public service and accessibility that constitutional institutions should embody in contemporary India. The move comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) advised states to replace the term ‘Raj Bhavan’, stating it “smacks of colonialism.”

Punjab’s renaming follows similar transitions in several other states and mirrors major rebranding initiatives across the country, including the landmark shift from ‘Rajpath’ to ‘Kartavya Path’ in New Delhi. The updated title Lok Bhavan underscores India’s growing emphasis on democratic identity and a deeper connection between public institutions and citizens.