Suket Satyagraha | HPPSC HPAS Preparation - HPPSC HPAS (Himachal Pardesh) PDF Download

Suket Satyagraha (1948)

Background:

• Ghadar Movement Influence (1914): Suket, like Mandi, was influenced by the Ghadar movement. In 1942, the people of Suket began protesting against forced labor and corrupt administration.

Precursor to Satyagraha:

• 1945 Revolution: After two decades of relative peace, a revolutionary movement emerged in 1945 under the leadership of Mian Ratan Singh.
• Suket Riyasti Praja Mandal (SRPM): Established in 1945, with Mian Ratan Singh as President, the SRPM demanded responsible governance. The Raja responded with repressive measures.

Formation of Temporary Government:

• Temporary Government in Suket (February 1948): The Himalayan Hill States Council established a working government in Suket with Pandit Shiva Nand Ramoul as President, and members such as Ram Chandel (Bilaspur), Pandit Padam Dev (Bushahr), and Mukund Lal.
• Conference at Sunni (Bhajji State, 1948): In a conference, the provisional government decided to start a movement for a complete province, with Suket chosen as the first target.

Suket Satyagraha:

• Non-Violent Movement (18 February 1948): Under the leadership of Pt. Padam Dev, a non-violent Satyagraha was launched. Within three days, three-fourths of Suket was under the control of the Satyagrahis.
• Raja Lakshman Sen's Request (23 February 1948): Faced with growing unrest, Raja Lakshman Sen requested the Indian government to send an army to suppress the movement.

Merger with Himachal Pradesh:

• Merger (15 April 1948): As a result of the Satyagraha and subsequent events, Suket was merged into Himachal Pradesh on 15 April 1948.

Earlier Revolts in Suket

1. Revolts in 1862 and 1876: The people of Suket revolted against the ruler and his minister, Narottam, due to oppressive policies and administration.

2. 1924 Uprisings: The Raja of Suket was forced to flee to Dehradun due to revolts caused by:

   • Maladministration
   • High taxes
   • Prevalence of the Begar System

3. Uprising in 1948:

   • Decision for Democratic Province (February 1948): The Himalayan Prant Provisional Government decided to establish a democratic province under the central government.
   • Non-Violent Satyagraha (18 February 1948): Led by Pt. Padam Dev, the peaceful protest resulted in control over most of Suket. The movement culminated in the state's merger with Himachal Pradesh.