Questions Raised Over ‘Ahir Regiment’ Board at Yadav Chowk in Sambhal

Despite a statewide ban on caste-specific names, villagers in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district have sparked debate by installing a board at Yadav Chowk in Atrarasi village, highlighting their claim over the Ahir Regiment. The board, which reads, “Our name is on our shoulders, the Ahir Regiment is our right,” has become the center of attention, especially with the 2027 Assembly elections on the horizon.

Villagers Claim Rights to the Regiment

Local residents, including Mansingh and Chhotelal, assert that the Ahir Regiment rightfully belongs to the Yadav community. They argue that the community has made significant sacrifices for the nation, and the board is a means to raise awareness about their historical contributions. “Neither the ruling party nor the opposition prioritizes farmers’ interests,” said one villager, explaining why the youth of the Yadav community took the initiative to display the board. Authorities have stated that the board will be removed if instructed by the administration.

A Similar Incident in 2022

This is not the first instance of such a board in Sambhal. In 2022, in the SP stronghold of Gunnaur, a chowk previously named Arthala Chowk was renamed Mulayam Singh Yadav Smriti Chowk by local leaders. The administration later removed the board, citing regulations. Observers are now watching closely to see how authorities respond to the latest display at Yadav Chowk.