Question

Impact of santhal revolt

Answer 1

Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856)

The Santhal rebellion was tribal rebellion marked by tribal passions and strong anti-British feelings. Under the leadership of Sidhu and Kanhu thousands of Santhals revolted against the oppressive British and their local Indian collaborations. The Santhals attacked and destroyed the houses of landlords, moneylenders, planters and British officials. Other people from lower orders also joined them. They proclaimed the end of British rule. After a series of initial setbacks, the British authority could ultimately subdue the santhal rebellion but only with a military aid.

Answer 2

The Santhal revolt of 1855 was fought between the santhal tribe and  the British forces aided by local agents called Zamindars in the forests of Jharkhand and West Bengal.

Though the British succeeded in quelling the revolt, it made them realize to accept their follies. The Santhal Parganas Tenency Act  was passed which provided the tribes some concessions and protection from colonial exploitation. The oppression of the police force came to end as well. The revolt had a major impact on other tribal revolts as well as the revolt of 1857.

Some Scholars are of the opinion that the present Naxalite Movement in various states including in Jharkhand and West Bengal had its roots in the Santhal Revolt.