Assam’s role in India’s freedom struggle is immensely significant. The state was a vital centre for the freedom struggle because of its geographic location, cultural legacy, and economic significance. The following are some significant facets of the involvement of Assam freedom fighters in the Indian liberation movement:
Early Resistance (1826-1857)
From the 13th century to the 19th century, the Ahom Kingdom dominated Assam and opposed British encroachment. The Treaty of Yandabo, which the British eventually compelled the Ahom Kingdom to sign in 1826, resulted in the British annexation of Assam. Following two years of conflict between the British and the Burmese, the treaty was signed on February 24, 1826. The pact stipulated that the Burmese would give the British Assam, Manipur, Arakan, and Taninthayi, stop meddling in the Cachar Kingdom and Jaintia Hills, pay a million pounds sterling in reparations, and permit British diplomatic agents to visit. The treaty had a significant influence on the history and culture of the area and signalled the start of British authority in Assam.
One such occasion that holds great significance in the history of opposition to British control in the area was the Ahom Revolt of 1828. The ongoing occupation of Assam following the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826, which had heightened the suspicions and discontent of the Ahom nobility because the British had pledged to withdraw following the conclusion of the Anglo-Burmese War, was the backdrop for the Ahom Revolt. With the help of Dhanjay Borgohain and Jairam KharghariaPhukan, Ahom Prince GomadharKonwar had initiated an uprising.
Freedom Movement
· Assam's Contribution to the Indian Rebellion of 1857: Maniram Dewan, an Assamese aristocrat, led the Revolt of 1857 in Assam, which was a component of the greater Sepoy revolt that started in Northern India. Assam's soldiers, particularly the Assam Light Infantry, played a crucial role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
· Assam Association (1903): When Bengal was divided in 1905, the Assam Association was crucial in preserving Assam's integrity and unity, and as a result of its work, Assam was recognised as a significant Indian province on par with other Indian provinces. The Assam Association was formed to promote Assamese interests and rights, marking the beginning of Assam's involvement in the Indian independence movement.
· Non-Cooperation Movement in Assam(1920-1922): Assam actively participated in Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement, with many Assamese leaders and activists joining the movement. The triumph of the Non-Cooperation Movement in Assam and the greater fight for India's freedom were greatly aided by the dedication and patriotism of the Sonitpur students.
· Quit India Movement in Assam(1942): Active engagement from a range of societal segments, local leadership, and notable acts of civil disobedience characterised the Quit India Movement in Assam, which aided in the greater fight for India's freedom. In addition to inspiring Assamese citizens, the campaign had a long-lasting effect on the political consciousness of the area. Participation in the Quit India Movement shaped the ambitions of the Assamese people and influenced the political climate after independence, laying the foundation for future political developments in the history of Assam.
Notable Assam Freedom Fighters
1. Maniram Dewan: A prominent Assamese leader who played a key role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
2. Piyali Phukan: An Assam freedom fighter who participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and was imprisoned by the British.
3. Nabin Chandra Bordoloi: A prominent Assamese leader who played a key role in the Indian National Congress and was instrumental in the formation of the Assam Provincial Congress Committee.
4. Chandraprabha Saikiani: She was the first woman to enter politics in independent India. She was also involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1932 and the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920–1921.
5. Kanaklata Barua: A teenage freedom fighter who was shot and killed by the British police during the Quit India Movement of 1942. The tale of the Assam freedom fighter is still told to honour her sacrifice.
6. Kushal Konwar: A leader during the Quit India Movement who advocated for the preservation of Assamese culture, language, and heritage.
7. Gopinath Bordoloi: The first Chief Minister of Assam. He volunteered for the Indian National Congress and fought for the cause of Indian independence.
The history of Assam in short has been permanently impacted by the state's freedom struggle. The bravery and patriotism of the Assam freedom fighters are demonstrated by their sacrifices. Despite the fact that many of them died or were imprisoned, their contributions to the Indian independence movement were vital to the country's eventual independence in 1947.
Several well-known freedom fighters, such as Maniram Dewan, who was executed by the British for his involvement in the uprising, were from the state. The state also saw a number of peasant uprisings that demonstrated the broad opposition to British control, such as the Patharughat and Phulaguri Dhawa. Assam faced ongoing difficulties following independence, such as lack of social advancement and economic growth. Nonetheless, with an expanding economy and better infrastructure, the state has advanced significantly in recent years. Assam is now a prosperous state that takes pride in its rich cultural legacy and its role in the fight for Indian independence.
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