CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
The Paika Rebellion of 1817 remains a lesser-known yet significant episode in India’s resistance against British rule. Recently, its omission from the first volume of the NCERT Class VIII history textbook led to public dissatisfaction in Odisha, prompting a response from the National Council of Educational Research and Training. NCERT assured that the rebellion will be covered in the second volume, expected later in 2025, highlighting the sensitivity of regional histories in shaping national narratives.
Introduction Of Pica
The Paikas were traditional military retainers under Odisha’s Gajapati kings, dating back to the 16th century. They served as infantrymen and were granted tax-free land holdings known as nish-kar jagirs. In times of peace, they farmed these lands while maintaining their role as protectors of the region. Their unique military and social status made them vital to local governance and defence.
British Rule And Displacement Of Paikas
Following the British annexation of Odisha in 1803, led by Colonel Harcourt, the East India Company failed to uphold promises made to local rulers. The kingdom of Khurda was dethroned, and Jayee Rajguru, a key royal advisor, was imprisoned. New land revenue policies, the discontinuation of rent-free land grants, and changes in the monetary system undermined the Paikas' livelihood. Many Paikas lost their land to absentee landlords, resulting in widespread hardship.
Reasons Behind Rebellion
The Paika uprising was driven by a combination of economic distress, loss of ancestral rights, and colonial exploitation. The British monopoly on salt, coupled with increased taxation, affected farmers and tribal groups alike. Deprived of their land and social standing, the Paikas, along with the Kondh tribal community, united to resist the colonial administration.
The 1817 Revolt Led By Bakshi Jagabandhu
In March 1817, around 400 Kondhs and a large contingent of Paikas, under the leadership of Bakshi Jagabandhu, launched a coordinated attack on British installations. They targeted police outposts, government buildings, and treasury offices. The rebellion quickly spread throughout Odisha, leading to intense confrontations. Although initially successful, the rebellion was eventually crushed. Jagabandhu evaded capture for several years before surrendering in 1825 under negotiated conditions.
Cultural And Political Legacy
The Paika Rebellion is considered one of the first organized uprisings against British imperialism in India. Over time, it has gained political relevance in Odisha, where leaders have linked the movement to regional pride and cultural identity. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has demanded national recognition for the rebellion as the first war of independence, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also commemorated the Paikas to strengthen political support in the state. Monuments and training centres have since been established to honour their legacy.
Educational Dispute And Regional Sentiment
The exclusion of the Paika Rebellion from the newly updated NCERT textbook series drew criticism in Odisha, sparking public protests. NCERT later clarified that the event will be featured in Volume 2 of the Class VIII textbook, scheduled for release by the end of 2025. The controversy highlights ongoing challenges in reconciling regional contributions within national educational frameworks. It also demonstrates how curriculum decisions can influence political discourse and cultural identity.
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