A public hearing on renaming three newly formed unions in Shibganj Upazila of Bogura will be held on Tuesday, officials said.
According to the Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) of Shibganj and Mokamtola, the hearing has been scheduled by order of the Bogura Deputy Commissioner. UNO Ziaur Rahman confirmed the matter on Monday afternoon.
The controversy arose after allegations that several newly created unions were named after personal connections of a local state minister, sparking widespread debate. Following the issue, instructions were issued from the Prime Minister’s Office, and a review process was initiated through the local administration. A committee was formed to collect public opinions and review the naming decisions.
The unions under review include Mirbari, Simanta, and Diganta. Officials said the names will be reconsidered and changed based on public opinion, with emphasis on local history, heritage, and geographical identity.
Public hearings are scheduled as follows:
Mirbari Union: 10 am at Betgari Mirbari Government Primary School
Simanta Union: 10 am at Jagannathpur High School field, Saidpur area of Mokamtola
Diganta Union: 10 am at Bhoria High School field, Mokamtola
Officials in charge of the committees said extensive announcements have been made through microphones and notices in mosques, markets, and public places to ensure local participation.
The administration stated that the final names will be decided based on feedback from residents, prioritizing local heritage and identity.
Earlier, four newly formed unions were initially named through recommendations following a local administrative process, which later drew criticism after reports suggested political influence in the naming decisions.
One of the unions, Swarnagram, was not included in the renaming directive and is expected to retain its name, though some locals have also demanded reconsideration of that decision.