Before the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, Patharughat Peasants Uprising occurred on 28th January 1894. Though it took place 25 years before the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, the general populace has largely forgotten the importance of this uprising. More than 100 peasants fell to British bullets in the Patharughat area, around 60 km North-East of Guwahati, in the Darrang district.
For UPSC Exam, it is imperative to know some details of this uprising as it has to do with Indian courage and sacrifice from simple peasants.
The candidates can go through the relevant topics useful for their upcoming exams from the links provided below:
Cause of the Patharughat Peasants Uprising
- In 1826, the British annexed Assam and began surveying the state’s lands. Based on these large-scale surveys, the British began to fix land taxes, causing bitterness and resentment among these farmers.
- Moreover, in 1893, the British increased this aforementioned taxation by 70-80%. Until then, Assamese peasants used to pay taxes in kind or services instead of cash. Once the British upped these taxes, the peasants organised Raij melas or peaceful peoples conventions.
- While these conventions were essentially democratic, the British viewed them as fertile grounds for sedition. Hence, they would come down on participants with a heavy hand to disperse them.
- On 28 January 1894, British officers refused to listen to peasants’ grievances and opened lathi-charge, followed by open firing.
- According to official sources, the number of casualties stood at 15 killed and 37 wounded.
- However, local sources say that around 140 persons lost their lives in the police firing.
Significance of Patharughat Uprising
- While the Patharughat Uprising is largely forgotten, it is second only to Ahom victory over Mughals in 1671. Hence, it plays a significant role in the patriotic fibre of the Assamese people.
- Moreover, people view this uprising as a precursor to the Civil Disobedient Movement and the non-violent movement under Mahatma Gandhi.
- Indian Army erected a martyrs column at this site on 28 January 2001. S.K. Sinha unveiled this column, and he is a former Governor of Assam.
- Every year people celebrate this day with functions, and the next day the Indian Army pays tribute in military style. The name of this occasion is Krishak Swahid Diwas.
- Moreover, nearby on 28 January 2021, Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated a Training and Skill Development Centre for farmers. The centre will also spread information about the Patharughat Uprising.
In view of the IAS Exam, knowledge of this subject is greatly important to aspirants as it deals with the uprising of Assam peasants. Patharughat will forever be etched in the minds of the Assamese people.
Frequently Asked Questions about Patharughat Peasants Uprising
What are a few of the schemes that the government launched on Krishak Swahid Diwas?
One of these schemes that the government launched on Krishak Swahid Diwas is that farmers can avail of zero-interest loans, also known as Farmers Interest Relief Scheme.
Which division of the Indian Army pays tribute to the Patharughat martyrs?
Red Horn Division of the Army pays tribute to the Patharughat martyrs.
Furthermore, candidates can learn more about the detailed UPSC Syllabus and exam pattern for the preliminary and mains phase of the examination at the linked article. Analysing the syllabus will help candidates accordingly schedule a study plan.
Apart from this, to get the latest exam updates, study material, notes, and other relevant information, candidates can turn to BYJU’S for help and get expert assistance.
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