Question
Discuss the features of the Indigo Revolt.
Answer
The Indigo Revolt was a widespread rebellion that took place in Bengal in the late 19th century. Some of the key features of the Indigo Revolt include:
- Forced cultivation: The British planters forced the local farmers to cultivate indigo on their lands instead of other crops, which led to a significant reduction in the income of the farmers.
- Exploitative practices: The planters imposed unfair contracts on the farmers, which included provisions such as compulsory cultivation of indigo, the provision of free labour, and the payment of high rents.
- Low wages: The planters paid very low wages to the farmers, which made it difficult for them to make ends meet.
- Revolt: The farmers organized themselves and launched a massive uprising against the British planters. They formed a resistance movement and attacked the indigo factories and the planters’ houses.
- Leadership: The Indigo Revolt was led by Digambar Biswas and Bishnu Biswas, who mobilized the farmers and organized them into a powerful resistance movement.
- Non-violent protests: The farmers used a range of non-violent protests such as strikes, boycotts, and peaceful demonstrations to highlight their grievances.
- Response of the British: The British initially responded to the revolt with violence and repression, but eventually, they had to bow down to the demands of the farmers and change their policies towards indigo cultivation.
- Impact: The Indigo Revolt played a crucial role in the development of the Indian nationalist movement. It served as an inspiration for future peasant movements and was one of the earliest examples of successful resistance against British rule.
