The forgotten resistance: Tribal uprisings against the British rule

India’s freedom struggle is usually remembered by its iconic leaders, mass movements, and landmark revolts, but what also fuelled this movement for independence is the profound and often overlooked contributions of the tribal uprisings. These uprisings reflected the animosity against British rule, land encroachments, and exploitation, demonstrating the unbending desire for autonomy among the indigenous communities of India. While many of these revolts were localised, their combined impact substantially challenged British colonial policies and contributed to the larger national struggle for independence. 

To understand the significance of tribal uprisings in the broader freedom struggle, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical context. British colonial rule, with its oppressive land revenue systems and forest laws, disrupted traditional tribal systems, weakened their society and economic condition, and estranged tribes from their ancestral lands. Tribal uprisings were not just acts of defiance but also expressions of cultural identity, defying the colonial portrayal of India as a submissive society. Tribal uprisings showcased the power of indigenous communities and their deep connection to their land, emphasising their preservation amidst colonial encroachment.

Key tribal movements 

The Santhal Rebellion: One of the most prominent tribal uprisings was the Santhal Rebellion of 1855-56. The Santhals, a tribe living in parts of Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Bihar, were forced into debt and exploited by the British and the zamindars. The Permanent Land Settlement Act of 1793 deprived them of the land they had been cultivating for centuries. Unfamiliar with money, the Santhals relied on moneylenders, who charged very high interest rates. So, in June 1855, the Santhals, led by Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu, rebelled against the colonial administration, attacking British-owned properties. They aimed to regain their land rights, abolish oppressive systems, and establish an autonomous society. Though suppressed by the British six months later in 1856, it left a significant mark and served as a symbol of early resistance against the British, highlighting tribal grievances. The rebellion caused the British to reconsider some of their policies and influenced future uprisings.

The Khasi Rebellion: Another major uprising against the British was the Khasi revolt of 1829-1833, also known as the Anglo-Khasi War. The Khasi, a tribe living in the Khasi hills, rose against the British in protest against the encroachment on their traditional lands and the exploitation of their resources. The resistance was led by Tirot Sing Syiem, who famously said, “Better die an independent king than reign as the vassal.” Even though they lost, the Khasi tribe put up a noteworthy fight, using guerilla tactics, swords, bows, and shields.

The Birsa Munda Rebellion: The Birsa Munda revolt of 1899-1900, which took place in present-day Jharkhand, was one of the most notable examples of tribal resistance against the British. The British and non-tribals took control of the tribal land in Chotanagpur and forced the Mundas to work as landless labourers, leading to the erosion of the Khuntkatti System, where the whole clan jointly owned the land and the exploitation of the tribals by the landlords. Furthermore, missionary activities tried to convert the tribals to Christianity, which threatened the Munda traditions that had been passed down for centuries. Birsa Munda, a tribal leader, created the “Birsait” faith and gave the slogan “Abua raj ete jana, maharani raj tundu jana” (Let the kingdom of the queen be ended and our kingdom be established), threatening the British Raj. Though the rebellion ended in 1833 with Birsa Munda getting arrested, it caused the British to make several changes in their policies, including the abolition of forced labour and recognition of the Khuntkatti System.

Tana Bhagat Movement: An example of a non-violent yet powerful protest against British colonial rule was the Tana Bhagat Movement, organised by the Oraon tribe in the Chotanagpur region of Jharkhand, which lasted from 1914 to 1920. Led by Jatra Bhagat, this movement protested against exploitative business practices, forced labour, policies of British colonial administration, foreign influence, and lack of land rights. The movement staged nonviolent civil disobedience, in which members of the Oraon Tribe refused to pay taxes and perform forced labour. This movement eventually aligned itself with the Indian Nationalist Movement and actively participated in non-cooperation movements led by Mahatma Gandhi. The Tana Bhagat Movement left behind a remarkable legacy, inspiring other tribal communities to resist and fight for their rights and serving as a reminder of the significant contribution of the Oraon tribe and the Tana Bhagats to the freedom struggle. 

Interconnections with national movements 

Despite being localised, tribal uprisings significantly influenced the broader national movement and laid the groundwork for future movements. The local tribal struggles aligned with the national movements over common grievances such as exploitation, political domination, and erosion of culture. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi recognised the importance of tribal participation, integrating their struggles into the larger fight for independence. The tribal communities were actively involved in the Champaran Satyagraha and the Quit India Movement, showcasing their solidarity with the national cause. 

The tribal uprisings in India, often overlooked, were crucial to the freedom struggle. These indigenous communities, including the Santhals, Mundas, and Khasis, resisted British oppression, challenging exploitative practices and fighting for their rights to land and autonomy. Their resilience and determination played a significant role in shaping the broader struggle for independence, reminding us of the interconnectedness of local and national struggles. Recognising their contributions is essential for understanding India’s history and ongoing pursuit of justice and equality.

(The writer is interested in uncovering the works of unsung heroes in science and history)