Peasant movements in Uttar Pradesh (UP) played a crucial role in India's freedom struggle and socio-economic reformation. The regions agrarian structure, characterized by oppressive zamindari systems, exorbitant rents, and exploitative practices, spurred these movements. The Kisan Sabhas (Farmer Assemblies) became a pivotal platform for organizing peasants and articulating their grievances, and leaders like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati emerged as iconic figures in the fight for agrarian justice.
Historical Background of Peasant Movements in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh was a predominantly agrarian society during colonial rule, with most of the population engaged in farming. However, the agrarian economy was deeply exploitative, marked by:
Zamindari System: Landlords extracted heavy rents and levies from peasants, leaving them impoverished.
Forced Labour: The peasants were often subjected to begar (forced, unpaid labor).
Revenue Policies: Colonial policies prioritized revenue extraction, burdening the already oppressed peasantry.
These factors, coupled with the rise of nationalist sentiments, laid the groundwork for organized peasant movements in the region.
Role of Uttar Pradesh in the Kisan Sabhas
Formation of Kisan Sabhas
The Kisan Sabha movement in Uttar Pradesh gained momentum in the early 20th century, aligning with the broader national struggle against British rule. The United Provinces Kisan Sabha (UPKS) was established in 1918 in Lucknow, marking a significant step in peasant mobilization.
Objectives of the Kisan Sabhas:
Reduction of land revenue and rent.
Abolition of the zamindari system.
Better rights for tenant farmers.
Elimination of begar and other exploitative practices.
Connection with the Indian National Congress:
The Kisan Sabhas worked closely with the Indian National Congress (INC), aligning their goals with the broader nationalist movement.
Mahatma Gandhis non-cooperation movement inspired many peasants to join the struggle for Swaraj.
Significant Kisan Movements in Uttar Pradesh
Eka Movement (1921):
Focused on tenant rights and rent reduction.
Primarily led by lower-caste farmers against oppressive landlords.
Eventually aligned with the broader Gandhian non-cooperation movement.
Awadh Peasant Uprising (1920s):
Concentrated in the Awadh region, where taluqdars (large landowners) exploited peasants.
Demands included a fair revenue system, lower rents, and better treatment of tenants.
The Awadh Kisan Sabha was a key organizer, led by activists like Baba Ram Chandra and Jawaharlal Nehru.
Kisan Sabha and Civil Disobedience Movement (1930s):
The Civil Disobedience Movement reinvigorated peasant agitations.
Salt Satyagraha inspired many farmers to join nationalist protests while demanding agrarian reforms.
Tebhaga and Bakasht Movements:
Though primarily in Bengal and Bihar, the spirit of these movements influenced UP's peasant struggles.
The demand for two-thirds of the produce to remain with the tiller resonated with tenant farmers in UP.
Contributions of Swami Sahajanand Saraswati
Swami Sahajanand Saraswati (18891950) was a revolutionary leader and a prominent figure in India's peasant movements. Born in Ghazipur district (now in Uttar Pradesh), his life and work profoundly impacted the agrarian struggles in the region.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born as Navrang Rai, Sahajanand Saraswati became a sanyasi early in life.
His exposure to rural poverty and peasant exploitation during his travels inspired him to advocate for agrarian justice.
Leadership in Kisan Sabhas
Swami Sahajanand was instrumental in organizing peasants under the banner of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), formed in 1936. He was the first president of the AIKS and played a pivotal role in shaping its policies.
Demands and Advocacy:
Complete abolition of the zamindari system.
Reduction in rents and taxes.
Distribution of surplus land to landless peasants.
Role in Uttar Pradesh:
Mobilized farmers across the state through fiery speeches and grassroots campaigns.
Encouraged peasants to boycott oppressive landlords and join the national movement.
Ideological Contribution
Marxist Influence:
While Sahajanand initially aligned with Gandhian principles, he later adopted Marxist ideologies, emphasizing class struggle.
He connected the plight of Indian peasants with global agrarian struggles.
Author and Thinker:
Wrote extensively about agrarian issues. His works, such as Kisan Sabha Ke Sansmaran and Mera Jivan Sangharsh, remain critical to understanding peasant movements.
Legacy
Swami Sahajanands leadership invigorated the peasant movement not only in UP but also across India. His emphasis on grassroots organization and his ability to unite peasants from diverse backgrounds made him a transformative figure.
Outcomes and Impact of Peasant Movements in Uttar Pradesh
Strengthened the Freedom Struggle:
The integration of peasant grievances into the nationalist movement broadened its base and made it more inclusive.
Policy Changes:
Although immediate gains were limited, the movements created pressure for future agrarian reforms, including the abolition of the zamindari system in post-independence India.
Social Awakening:
Peasant movements challenged traditional hierarchies, promoting solidarity among the oppressed.
Foundation for Later Movements:
The Kisan Sabha model inspired future agrarian and workers movements in independent India.
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