Gaya session 1922 l Kisan Sabha in Bihar l Simon Commission in Bihar l Lec#6

Modern History of Bihar - Lecture 6

Introduction to Key Topics

• The lecture focuses on significant topics in the modern history of Bihar, emphasizing that at least two questions can be expected from this area in exams. This topic is a favorite among BPSC (Bihar Public Service Commission) and BTC (Bihar Teacher Eligibility Test) examiners.

Exam Preparation Strategy

• The aim is to provide comprehensive points so that all exam-related questions are covered within the video content. A verification process will occur post-exam to confirm that no questions arise outside the discussed material.

Important Historical Events

• The session will cover crucial events such as the formation of the Bihar Provincial Kisan Sabha and its historical context, including key figures like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati and Ram Sundar Singh. An example question regarding this formation will be posed for student engagement.

Congress Sessions in Bihar

• Discussion includes two significant Congress sessions held in Bihar:

• The first session took place in 1912 under Raghunath Mudholkar's presidency in Bankipur, Patna.

• The second session occurred ten years later, in 1922, chaired by Chittaranjan Das at Gaya near the Falgu River. This event is pivotal due to its implications for Indian politics during that era.

Division within Congress

• In 1922, a division occurred within Congress influenced by various factions:

• One faction advocated for violent resistance led by figures like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

• Another group sought social reforms before pursuing independence.

• This ideological split highlights differing strategies towards achieving freedom from British rule and reflects broader socio-political dynamics of the time.

Key Figures and Their Roles

• Notable leaders mentioned include:

• Chittaranjan Das: Known as "Deshbandhu," he played a critical role during these congress sessions.

• Rajendra Prasad: First President of India who was also involved in these movements.

• Motilal Nehru: Father of Jawaharlal Nehru; both had contrasting ideologies yet shared a close personal bond.

These leaders were instrumental in shaping political discourse during India's struggle for independence, particularly through their participation in Congress activities.

History of Indian Governance and Farmers' Movements

Historical Context of Indian Governance

• The discussion begins with a reference to the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1969, highlighting their significance in the context of Indian governance.

• The Government of India Act 1929 is mentioned, emphasizing the roles of key figures like Morley (Secretary of State) and Minto (Viceroy), who were instrumental during British rule.

• The transition from Governor-General to Viceroy post-1857 is noted, indicating a shift in British administrative strategy aimed at consolidating control over India.

• The introduction of separate electorates for Muslims in 1909 is discussed as an example of the "divide and rule" policy employed by the British to create communal divisions among Indians.

• Dr. Rajendra Prasad's perspective on Minto as the "Father of Pakistan" illustrates historical interpretations surrounding key political figures during India's struggle for independence.

Emergence of Farmers' Movements in Bihar

• The importance of farmers' movements in Bihar is highlighted, noting that this region was pivotal for agricultural activism and social change.

• Swami Sahajanand Saraswati is introduced as a significant figure in these movements, symbolizing leadership within farmer communities.

• Key events leading up to major farmer gatherings are outlined, including efforts by leaders like Mohammad Zubair and Shri Krishna Singh to mobilize farmers for independence.

• A notable conference held in November 1929 at Sonpur marks a critical moment for organizing farmers under the Bihar Provincial Kisan Sabha banner.

• The role played by prominent leaders such as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel during his visit to Bihar in 1929 emphasizes the interconnectedness between farmer issues and national politics.

Formation and Impact of Kisan Sabhas

• The establishment of various Kisan Sabhas (farmers' associations), particularly between 1934 and 1936, showcases organized efforts towards advocating for farmers’ rights.

• Specific dates are crucial: meetings held in Gaya (1934), Hajipur (1935), and subsequent formations highlight strategic planning among farmer leaders.

• Swami Sahajanand Saraswati’s leadership emerges prominently as he becomes a central figure advocating for farmers’ rights across India following successful local assemblies.

• By 1936, the formation of All India Kisan Sabha signifies a unifying movement that transcends regional boundaries, aiming to address broader agricultural issues nationally.

Legacy and Literature on Farmers' Struggles

• Swami Sahajanand's contributions extend beyond activism; he authored works that documented farmers’ struggles, reflecting their plight through literature such as "My Life: My Struggle."

• His publication "Ukaar" served as an important platform for voicing farmers’ concerns, illustrating how literature played a role in raising awareness about agrarian issues.

Overview of the Simon Commission and Key Figures in Bihar's Political History

Introduction to Swami Sahajanand Saraswati

• The mention of Swami Sahajanand Saraswati as an option indicates his significance in Bihar's political landscape, particularly regarding risk-taking in examinations where negative marking is not a factor.

The Importance of the Simon Commission

• Discussion on the Simon Commission highlights its relevance from a local perspective, with Dr. Anugrah Narayan Singh being identified as a key figure—Bihar's first Finance Minister and Deputy CM.

Background on Dr. Anugrah Narayan Singh

• Dr. Anugrah Narayan Singh hailed from Aurangabad, Bihar, and was noted for his integrity and active role in politics; he later became Chief Minister of Bihar.

Timeline of the Simon Commission's Visit to Bihar

• The commission visited Bihar on December 12, 1928, with significant events occurring again on December 12, 1945. Dr. Anugrah Narayan Singh was tasked with leading this commission.

Composition and Opposition to the Simon Commission

• The commission consisted of seven members, including Clement Attlee—a prominent Labour Party leader who would later become Prime Minister of Britain post-independence.

• It was decided that opposition to the Simon Commission would be widespread across various forms; notable resistance included Lala Lajpat Rai’s tragic death during protests against it.

Conclusion: Legacy of Resistance Against Colonial Policies

• The notes emphasize that significant figures like Dr. Anugrah Narayan Singh were at the forefront of opposing colonial policies represented by the Simon Commission during tumultuous times in Patna.