The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) renamed its “Bustee (slum) Services department” to “Uttaran Services department” following West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s suggestion. The decision, aimed at moving away from the perceived negativity associated with the word “Basti,” received final approval during the KMC’s monthly meeting on March 22, an official said.
The decision to rename the department was initially a request by its Director General, which was considered and approved by the Mayor-in-Council (MIC) on February 7, 2025. This recommendation was then presented to the Corporation.
The KMC said in a notification that while both its Bustee cell and the Bustee services department were “crucial” in serving residents of underdeveloped areas, “the term Bustee has a negative connotation, whereas ‘Uttaran’ represents development and progress fostering a more dignified outlook… The department’s role extends beyond slum maintenance, rehabilitation, infrastructure development, and social welfare, making Uttaran a more appropriate name.”
The civic body believes that the new name will foster greater inclusivity and encourage wider participation.
“A name that emphasizes upliftment will encourage greater participation from citizens, NGOs, and stakeholders,” the notification stated. “This change aligns with urban renewal projects like PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana), AMRUT, and smart city initiatives, reinforcing a commitment to sustainable development,” it added.
Evidence of the impending change was already visible, with Borough Executive Engineers erecting signs with the word ‘Uttaran’ at the entry points of various locations within the KMC.
An official said, “The impetus for this change came directly from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in 2023. While virtually inaugurating Durga Puja pandals, the Chief Minister took objection to the term ‘bustee’ when the Mayor mentioned Amra Sakal Palli Samiti from the Chetla area. It is a significant step towards changing the perception.”
The Chief Minister had reportedly instructed Mayor Firhad Hakim to rename the areas to ‘Uttaran’. “As all are owners here, everyone has their own little homes,” she had said in 2023.