Discuss the major causes of tribal uprisings both in Mainland and North East
During the phase of the 18th and 19th Century, the British faced numerous, frequent and violent tribal uprisings. It was mostly due to the discontent of people with the Imperial government. The Tribal uprisings in Colonial India can be broadly classified into two parts Mainland Tribal Uprisings and Frontier Tribal Revolt (North-East India). BY PHYSICS WALLAH
Mainland Tribal Movements
Rights: Land and Forest rights were the most important factors which sparked these movements.
Intrusion of Outsiders: Extension of agriculture in settled form led to loss of land among tribals and intrusion of outsiders in tribal areas.
Restrictions on Traditional Agricultural Practice: Shifting agriculture was curbed, reserved forests were set up and restrictions were imposed on grazing. All these combined to aggravate the misery of tribals.
Interfering in Traditional Customs: Intrusion of Christian Missionaries into their customs and tradition was also a major cause of resentment among tribals.
North-East Tribal Movement
Autonomy: The target of these movements was mostly political autonomy within British India or complete independence. These movements were not forest based or agrarian revolt. They enjoyed a relatively high level of autonomy. Also, the British entered these areas much later.
Long Struggle: Their duration was longer as compared to the non-frontier tribal movements.
Although these tribal revolts made little difference at times they occurred but later on integrated with mass movement and gave shape to the ‘First War of Independence’.