Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home Acquired by West Bengal Government; Museum and Library Planned

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home has officially been acquired by the West Bengal government in a significant move to preserve the legacy of one of the state's most prominent political leaders. Located at Jirat in Hooghly district, the ancestral property has been transferred from private ownership to the state's Information and Cultural Affairs Department. The government plans to develop the site into a museum, library, memorial complex and heritage destination, highlighting Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee's contribution to West Bengal and the nation.

The acquisition also fulfills a key commitment majde by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Assembly election campaign. Officials said the restoration and redevelopment project will transform the historic residence into an important cultural landmark while preserving its historical significance for future generations.

West Bengal Government Completes Acquisition of Historic Property
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home was purchased from four legal heirs for ₹1,25,99,822.
According to official sources, the land registration process was completed at the Registrar of Assurances office in Kolkata on July 3, and the entire payment was transferred to the legal heirs through bank transactions on the same day.
The acquisition represents one of the fastest heritage property purchases undertaken by the state government in recent years.

Cabinet Approval and Fast-Track Acquisition Process

The proposal to acquire the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home received approval during the state Cabinet meeting held on June 3.
Following the Cabinet's decision, the Hooghly District Direct Land Purchase Committee, chaired by the Special Land Acquisition Officer, convened on June 29 to finalise the acquisition process.

Officials completed the purchase within just three days of the committee meeting, ensuring that ownership of the property was transferred without delay.

Museum, Library and Memorial Complex Planned
The government has announced ambitious plans for the redevelopment of the historic residence.

Museum Honouring Dr. Mookerjee
A museum showcasing the life, political journey and contributions of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee will be established within the ancestral property.

The museum is expected to preserve important documents, photographs and historical records associated with the former national leader.

Public Library and Research Centre
A library is also proposed as part of the redevelopment project. Officials expect it to become a valuable resource for researchers, students and visitors interested in the life and legacy of Dr. Mookerjee.

Memorial Park and Heritage Development
The project also includes the construction of a memorial park and the beautification of the surrounding area, transforming the site into a major cultural and heritage destination in Hooghly district.
H2: Property Details and Government Expenditure
According to official records, the acquired property spans 0.30179 acres, including the ancestral residential building.

The valuation includes:
Land value: ₹1.15 crore
Building value: ₹10.56 lakh
Total property value: Approximately ₹1.26 crore
Registration and administrative expenses: Around ₹2 lakh
Overall government expenditure: Approximately ₹1.28 crore
Officials said all financial transactions were completed through formal banking channels.

Minister Highlights Amit Shah's Commitment
Local MLA and Minister of State for Health Sumana Sarkar said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised during the Assembly election campaign that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee's ancestral residence would be preserved and developed into a museum and library.

She added that after the change in government, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari instructed officials to hold discussions with all legal heirs and prioritise the acquisition process.

According to the minister, preparatory work for the museum and heritage project has already begun.

₹200 Crore Allocated for Heritage Project
The state government has made a substantial financial commitment to the project.

In the State Budget, ₹200 crore has been allocated for:

Restoration of the Ancestral Residence
The historic building will undergo restoration while preserving its original architectural and historical character.

Construction of a 125-Foot Statue
A 125-foot-tall statue of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee is proposed as one of the landmark attractions of the project.

Museum, Library and Beautification
The redevelopment plan also includes:
Construction of a modern museum
Development of a public library
Creation of a memorial park
Beautification of the surrounding area
Installation of a full-length statue of Dr. Mookerjee at Jirat

Preserving the Legacy of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee
The acquisition of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home is part of the government's broader initiative to commemorate the leader's contribution to West Bengal and India.

Earlier this month, on July 6, the state government observed Dr. Mookerjee's birth anniversary with commemorative programmes and declared a public holiday for state government employees.
Officials believe the restoration of the ancestral residence will help preserve an important chapter of Bengal's political and cultural history while creating a new destination for visitors, researchers and students.

The acquisition of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Ancestral Home marks a significant step in preserving the legacy of one of West Bengal's most influential leaders. With plans for a museum, library, memorial park, heritage restoration and a towering statue, the state government aims to transform the historic property at Jirat into a major cultural landmark. Backed by a ₹200 crore allocation, the project is expected to honour Dr. Mookerjee's contributions while promoting heritage conservation and public awareness for generations to come.