United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement (1918–1920): A Peasant Uprising for Justice

 

United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement (1918–1920): A Peasant Uprising for Justice

The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement (1918–1920) was a significant peasant uprising in the Awadh region of the erstwhile United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh, India). Spearheaded by leaders like Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi, this movement was a powerful expression of the grievances of farmers against oppressive agrarian policies and exploitative landlordism. Supported by prominent figures like Madan Mohan Malaviya, the movement laid the foundation for organized peasant resistance in India. This detailed note explores the reasons for the movement’s inception, its course, and its results, presenting the narrative in simple, engaging, and eloquent language.

Introduction: A Cry for Justice

In the early 20th century, the lush fields of Awadh, known as the "granary of India," hid a harsh reality. Beneath the fertile soil lay the struggles of millions of peasants burdened by high rents, illegal levies, and the constant threat of eviction. The United Provinces Kisan Sabha, established in February 1918 in Lucknow, emerged as a beacon of hope for these farmers. Led by Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi, with the backing of Madan Mohan Malaviya, the Sabha united peasants from diverse agricultural castes to demand justice. This movement was not just a protest; it was a call for dignity, fairness, and freedom from exploitation. Over two years, it grew from a small organization to a formidable force, setting the stage for future peasant struggles in India.

Reasons for Inception: The Roots of Discontent

The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement was born out of deep-rooted grievances that plagued the agrarian society of Awadh. Several factors converged to ignite this uprising:

Oppressive Land Tenure System:
After the Revolt of 1857, the British reinstated the taluqdars (large landlords) in Awadh, granting them control over vast tracts of land. This strengthened their grip over the peasantry. Tenants faced exorbitant rents, often as high as 50–75% of their produce. The taluqdars also imposed illegal levies, such as nazrana (renewal fees) and begar (unpaid labor), which pushed peasants into perpetual debt and poverty.

Economic Hardships Post-World War I:
The First World War (1914–1918) had a devastating impact on the rural economy. The British government’s wartime policies led to a sharp rise in the prices of food and essential commodities. While landlords hoarded profits, peasants struggled to afford basic necessities. The war also disrupted agricultural markets, leaving farmers with little income to pay rents or taxes.

Summary Evictions (Bedakhali):
The practice of bedakhali—arbitrary eviction from land—was widespread. Peasants who failed to pay rent or comply with the taluqdars’ demands were summarily evicted, losing their only source of livelihood. This created a climate of fear and insecurity among cultivators.

Influence of Home Rule Movement:
The Home Rule Movement, led by Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, inspired political awakening across India. In the United Provinces, Home Rule activists, including Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi, saw the plight of peasants as part of the broader struggle against British colonialism. They mobilized farmers to form Kisan Sabhas, blending agrarian grievances with the call for self-governance.

Lack of Legal Protections:
The British administration offered little recourse for peasants. The legal system favored landlords, and courts were inaccessible to illiterate and impoverished farmers. This lack of justice fueled resentment and the need for collective action.

These factors created a volatile situation, ripe for organized resistance. Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi, both educated and socially conscious leaders, recognized the urgency of uniting peasants to challenge this exploitation. With the moral and political support of Madan Mohan Malaviya, a respected nationalist leader, they laid the foundation for the United Provinces Kisan Sabha.

Course of the Movement: A Journey of Resistance

The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement unfolded in distinct phases, marked by organization, mobilization, and escalation. Its journey from 1918 to 1920 was a testament to the resilience and unity of the peasantry.

Phase 1: Formation and Early Organization (1918–1919)

Establishment of the Sabha: In February 1918, Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi founded the United Provinces Kisan Sabha in Lucknow. Madan Mohan Malaviya, a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress, lent his support, giving the movement credibility and visibility. The Sabha aimed to address peasant grievances, including high rents, illegal levies, and evictions.

Rapid Expansion: By June 1919, the Sabha had established 450 branches across the United Provinces, reflecting its widespread appeal. It attracted peasants from both high and low castes, creating a broad-based coalition. Leaders like Jhinguri Singh, Durgapal Singh, and Baba Ramchandra emerged as key figures, mobilizing rural communities.

Methods of Mobilization: The Sabha organized mass meetings, where leaders educated peasants about their rights and encouraged collective action. Home Rule activists played a crucial role in spreading the message, linking peasant struggles to the national movement for independence.

Phase 2: Growing Momentum and Nationalist Involvement (1919–1920)

Congress Session in Delhi (1918): A large number of peasants from the United Provinces attended the Indian National Congress session in Delhi in December 1918. Their participation highlighted the agrarian crisis and brought their issues to the attention of national leaders.

Baba Ramchandra’s Influence: Baba Ramchandra, a charismatic leader from Maharashtra, became a pivotal figure in the movement. He recited verses from the Ramcharitmanas to inspire peasants, infusing the struggle with cultural and spiritual resonance. His leadership bridged the gap between rural masses and urban nationalists.

Nehru’s Engagement: In June 1920, Baba Ramchandra urged Jawaharlal Nehru to visit the villages of Awadh. Nehru’s tours fostered a deep connection with the peasantry, strengthening the movement’s ties with the Indian National Congress. His presence also amplified the Sabha’s demands on a national stage.

Phase 3: Formation of Awadh Kisan Sabha (October 1920)

Split in Nationalist Ranks: Differences among nationalists led to the formation of the Awadh Kisan Sabha in October 1920, led by Baba Ramchandra, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others. This new organization focused specifically on the Awadh region, where exploitation was most acute.

Radical Demands: The Awadh Kisan Sabha issued a bold manifesto, urging peasants to:

Refuse to till bedakhali land (land from which tenants had been evicted).

Stop providing hari and begar (unpaid labor).

Boycott landlords who refused to comply with these conditions.

Resolve disputes through village panchayats, bypassing colonial courts.

Mass Mobilization: The Sabha organized large rallies and protests, drawing thousands of peasants. These gatherings were peaceful but resolute, signaling the growing strength of the movement.

Phase 4: Escalation and Repression (Late 1920–1921)

Shift to Direct Action: By January 1921, the movement took a more confrontational turn. Frustrated by the lack of response from landlords and the British administration, peasants resorted to looting bazaars, granaries, and houses of exploitative landlords. Clashes with the police became frequent, marking a shift from non-violent mobilization to sporadic violence.

British Repression: The colonial authorities responded with force, arresting leaders and suppressing protests. The heavy-handed response aimed to dismantle the Sabha’s organizational structure and intimidate peasants.

Despite these challenges, the movement sustained its momentum until 1921, when the broader Non-Cooperation Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi, absorbed much of its energy. The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement, however, left an indelible mark on India’s agrarian and nationalist history.

Results: A Legacy of Empowerment

The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement did not achieve all its immediate objectives, but its impact was profound and far-reaching. Its results can be categorized into immediate outcomes and long-term legacies.

Immediate Outcomes

Raised Awareness: The movement brought the plight of Awadh’s peasants to the forefront of national consciousness. It highlighted the link between agrarian distress and colonial exploitation, influencing the Indian National Congress to prioritize peasant issues.

Strengthened Peasant Unity: The Sabha’s ability to unite peasants across caste lines was a significant achievement. It fostered a sense of collective identity and solidarity among cultivators, empowering them to challenge landlordism.

Limited Concessions: While systemic reforms were not immediately implemented, the movement pressured some landlords to reduce rents and illegal levies in certain areas, providing temporary relief to peasants.

Integration with Nationalist Movement: The involvement of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and the participation of peasants in Congress sessions strengthened the alliance between the agrarian and nationalist movements. This laid the groundwork for future collaborations.

Long-Term Legacies

Foundation for Future Peasant Movements: The United Provinces Kisan Sabha inspired the formation of other peasant organizations, such as the All India Kisan Sabha in 1936. Its emphasis on collective action and anti-landlordism influenced agrarian struggles across India.

Influence on Land Reforms: The movement’s demands for fair rents and tenant rights contributed to post-independence land reforms. The Zamindari Abolition Act of 1950 in Uttar Pradesh can trace its ideological roots to early peasant uprisings like this one.

Empowerment of Rural Masses: By giving peasants a platform to voice their grievances, the Sabha instilled a sense of agency. This empowerment encouraged rural communities to participate in the freedom struggle and demand their rights.

Legacy of Leadership: Leaders like Gauri Shankar Mishra, Indra Narayan Dwivedi, and Baba Ramchandra became symbols of resistance. Their efforts inspired future generations of activists to champion the cause of the marginalized.

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Key Figures: Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi

Gauri Shankar Mishra: A Home Rule activist and lawyer, Mishra was instrumental in organizing the Sabha. His ability to connect with peasants and articulate their grievances made him a respected leader. He worked tirelessly to expand the Sabha’s network, ensuring its reach across rural Awadh.

Indra Narayan Dwivedi: A scholar and nationalist, Dwivedi brought intellectual rigor to the movement. He collaborated with Mishra to draft demands and mobilize support. His leadership helped bridge the gap between urban nationalists and rural peasants.

Madan Mohan Malaviya: While not a founding member, Malaviya’s support was crucial. As a prominent Congress leader and founder of Banaras Hindu University, he lent legitimacy to the movement and advocated for peasant rights at the national level.

Together, these leaders transformed the United Provinces Kisan Sabha into a powerful force for change, inspiring peasants to dream of a fairer future.

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Conclusion: A Movement That Echoes Today

The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement (1918–1920) was a radiant chapter in India’s history, where ordinary peasants, guided by visionary leaders, stood up against injustice. Born out of the anguish of exploitation, it grew into a mighty wave of resistance, challenging the might of landlords and the British Raj. Though it faced setbacks, its legacy endures in the form of empowered rural communities, inspired nationalist movements, and a vision for equitable land reforms.

Gauri Shankar Mishra and Indra Narayan Dwivedi, with their unwavering commitment, lit a spark that illuminated the path for future struggles. Their work reminds us that even in the darkest times, the collective voice of the oppressed can shake the foundations of tyranny. The United Provinces Kisan Sabha Movement was not just a protest; it was a promise—a promise of dignity, justice, and a better tomorrow for India’s farmers.