Recently, a narrative emerged from the Gujarat government which acknowledged and commemorated the hundred-year-old Pal-Dadhvav killings, an episode in history that was reportedly more severe than the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Along with the recognition of this massacre, Bihar Chief Minister also announced the commemoration of “Shahid Diwas” on February 15 in memory of other freedom fighters assassinated by the police force.
Understanding the Pal-Dadhvav Massacre
The Pal-Dadhvav massacre occurred on March 7, 1922, in the villages of Pal-Chitariya and Dadhvaav, situated in the Sabarkantha district. The day was Amalki Ekadashi, an important festival for tribals falling just before Holi. Local villagers congregated near the river Heir, participating in what was known as the ‘Eki movement’, under the leadership of Motilal Tejawat.
Tejawat mobilized Bhils from multiple regions to join the protest, having a significant impact on areas in and around Sabarkantha and reaching out to princely states like Dungarpur, Banswada, and Udaipur of Rajasthan. The objective of the movement was to protest against the oppressive land revenue tax imposed by the British and feudal lords.
With the British Paramilitary force in pursuit of Tejawat, they received news of the gathering and stormed the site. Confronted by approximately 200 Bhils, the British forces opened fire, resulting in substantial casualties among the tribals. The British officially claimed they killed 22 people, while locals believe the number to be between 1,200 and 1,500. Tejawat managed to escape, later returning to dub the location as ‘Veer Bhumi’.
Delving into the Life of Motilal Tejawat
Motilal Tejawat comes from a predominantly tribal village called Koliyari. Initially working for a landlord, Tejawat witnessed brutal exploitation and atrocities committed against tribals, sparking outrage within him. This experience led him to renounce his job in 1920 and dedicate himself to social reform and the welfare of the tribal people.
The legacy of the Pal-Dadhvav massacre lives on in contemporary tribal culture, with local tribes often recalling the event in their traditional songs during celebrations and fairs. One such song is ‘Hansu dukhi, duniya dukhi’, which serves as a reminder of the historical struggle.
Remembering Other Freedom Fighters
Parallelly, other leaders from the era of Colonial India are also being memorialized. Figures like Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Kumar Sehgal, and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon are being commemorated for their crucial contributions as officers of the Indian National Army during the fight for independence.
By remembering and honoring these events and figures, we recognize our complex colonial heritage and the sacrifices that led to India’s independence. Such remembrances ensure that the struggles of the past continue to inspire future generations to value and protect their freedom.