Patharughat Peasant Uprising: Assam’s Jallianwala Bagh Moment
The Patharughat Peasant Uprising, also known as the Battle of Patharughat, occurred on 28 January 1894 in Darrang district, Assam. It stands as one of the earliest and most poignant examples of agrarian resistance against British colonial rule in India.
Following the British annexation of Assam in 1826, colonial authorities began land surveys and imposed steep land revenue taxes—reportedly increased by 70–80%. This was a drastic shift from the traditional system where peasants paid taxes in kind or through service. The new cash-based taxation system devastated the agrarian economy and sparked widespread resentment.
In response, thousands of farmers gathered peacefully at Patharughat to protest the unjust tax hikes. The British, viewing these democratic assemblies as potential sedition, responded with force. On that fateful day, the Indian Imperial Police launched a lathi charge, followed by open gunfire on the unarmed crowd. Official records cite 15 deaths and 37 injuries, but local accounts claim over 140 peasants were killed.
The massacre at Patharughat is often compared to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, though it occurred 25 years earlier. Since 2000, the Indian Army and local communities commemorate Krishak Swahid Divas (Farmer Martyrs Day) annually on January 28 to honor the martyrs.
Despite its historical significance, the Patharughat uprising remains underrepresented in mainstream narratives. It was not just a protest—it was a precursor to India’s civil disobedience movement and a symbol of rural resistance.
Trivia Points About Patharughat Uprising:
- Took place on 28 January 1894 in Darrang, Assam.
- Protested against 70–80% hike in land revenue tax.
- Farmers previously paid taxes in kind or service.
- Over 140 peasants reportedly killed in British firing.
- Known locally as Patharughatar Ran (Battle of Patharughat).
- Often compared to Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
- Commemorated as Krishak Swahid Divas every year.
- Army built a martyrs’ column at the site.
- British officials involved: JD Anderson and JR Berington.
- Patharughat is 65 km northeast of Guwahati.
- The uprising was peaceful until British provocation.
- Inspired future agrarian revolts in Assam.
- Recognized in Assam’s school history curriculum.
- India Post issued a commemorative stamp in 2025.
- Locals still hold Raij Mels (people’s assemblies) in tribute.