In this article, we will discuss Pabna Movement. So, let’s get started.
Pabna Movement (1870s-80s)
- In larger parts of Eastern Bengal, landlords forcefully collected rents and land taxes, often enhanced for the poor peasants.
- The peasants were also prevented from acquiring Occupancy Right under Act X of 1859.
- In May 1873 an Agrarian League was formed in the Yusufshahi Pargana of Pabna district, Patna (East Bengal).
- Rent strikes were organised, funds were raised and the struggle spread throughout Patna and to other districts of East Bengal.
- The struggle was mainly legal resistance and little violence.
- The discontent continued till 1885 when the Government by the Bengal Tenancy Act of 1885 enhanced the occupancy rights.
- The struggle was supported by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, R.C. Dutt and the Indian Association under Surendranath Banerjee.
