Syllabus: GS– I & V: Modern Indian History

Why in the News?

February 26 marks the death anniversary of Swahid Piyali Baruah, who was publicly hanged in 1858 along with Maniram Dewan in Jorhat for plotting against British rule. Civil society groups have renewed demands to properly honour his sacrifice.

The Historical Context

The execution of Piyali Baruah and Maniram Dewan must be understood against the backdrop of the Treaty of Yandaboo (1826), which formally transferred Assam from Burmese to British control after the First Anglo-Burmese War.

British rule disrupted the traditional Ahom political order, revenue systems and land rights. This led to several early resistances in Assam, including:

• Gomadhar Konwar’s rebellion (1828) to restore Ahom sovereignty.
• Execution of Piyoli Phukan (1830) at Sivasagar Jail.

By 1857, when the First War of Independence (Sepoy Mutiny) erupted across India, Assam too witnessed a parallel uprising.

Who Was Swahid Piyali Baruah?

• Real name: Mahesh Chandra Sarma Gabhorumelia Baruah.
• His grandfather was Jurai Gabhoru Melai Baruah, an official in the court of Ahom King Kamaleswar Singha.
• Belong to the Bezbaruah lineage of Jorhat.
• Acted as the key mobiliser and strategist in the planned revolt.

His Role in the 1857 Uprising

• Travelled across Sibsagar district mobilising support.
• Inspired soldiers of the Light Infantry at Nogora (Golaghat).
• Coordinated with local patriots across communities, including Hindu and Muslim supporters.
• Planned an attack during the Durga Puja festivities.

However, British authorities intercepted secret letters. After a trial by Special Commissioner Charles John Holroyd, both Piyali Baruah and Maniram Dewan were publicly hanged on February 26, 1858 near Na-Ali in Jorhat.

Why His Sacrifice Matters Today

• His martyrdom represents Assam’s participation in the 1857 revolt, often called Assam’s version of the First War of Independence.
• It reflects early resistance to colonial exploitation, including land confiscation and suppression of local industries like tea cultivation.
• His story highlights how regional heroes are often overshadowed in mainstream national history.

Key Concepts Explained

• Treaty of Yandaboo (1826): Ended Burmese rule in Assam and began British administration.
• First War of Independence (1857): Widespread revolt against British East India Company rule.
• Public Execution: Used by colonial rulers as a tool of deterrence.
• Ahom Kingdom: Indigenous ruling dynasty of Assam for nearly 600 years.
• Historical Memory and Recognition: Important for identity building and inclusive historiography.

Exam Hook

Key Takeaways

• Assam actively participated in the 1857 uprising.
• Treaty of Yandaboo marked the beginning of British rule in Assam.
• Piyali Baruah and Maniram Dewan were executed in 1858.
• Regional freedom fighters are crucial for balanced historiography.

Mains Question

“Regional resistance movements played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle.” Discuss with reference to Assam’s contribution in 1857.

One-line Wrap:
Swahid Piyali Baruah’s supreme sacrifice reminds us that Assam’s struggle for freedom began long before 1947 and deserves rightful recognition in national history.

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