Reasons for the Flaying of the Countryside by Ryots/Peasants
- Harsh Taxation: The imposition of heavy taxes by the ruling authorities led to extreme poverty among the ryots and peasants. They were unable to meet the exorbitant demands of the landlords and colonial administrators.
- Exploitative Landlords: Landlords exploited the peasants by charging high rents and imposing unfair land revenue systems. This led to a cycle of debt and poverty, pushing the peasants to extreme measures.
- Lack of Government Support: The government's policies favored the landlords and colonial rulers, neglecting the needs of the rural population. This lack of support further exacerbated the economic hardships faced by the peasants.
- Loss of Livelihood: The introduction of cash crops and commercial agriculture displaced traditional subsistence farming practices, depriving many peasants of their primary source of livelihood. This forced them to resort to desperate measures to survive.

Consequences of the Countryside Flaying
- Deserted Villages: As a result of the harsh conditions and exploitation, many villages became deserted as the peasants either fled or were unable to sustain themselves in their homes.
- Decline in Agricultural Productivity: The exodus of peasants and the abandonment of farmlands led to a decline in agricultural productivity, further exacerbating the economic hardships faced by the rural population.
- Social Disruption: The disintegration of rural communities due to the flaying of the countryside resulted in social disruption, loss of traditional practices, and an increase in social unrest.
- Migration to Urban Areas: Many peasants who were displaced from their villages due to the flaying of the countryside migrated to urban areas in search of alternative livelihoods, adding to the urban population and straining resources.
In conclusion, the flaying of the countryside by ryots and peasants was a consequence of oppressive policies, exploitative practices, and economic hardships imposed upon them by the ruling authorities and landlords. This led to the abandonment of villages, decline in agricultural productivity, social disruption, and migration to urban areas.