Question: Consider the following statements regarding Paika Bidroha (Rebellion) of Odisha
(1) The Paika Rebellion is widely regarded as the first war of Independence against British rule
(2) This rebellion took place under the leadership of Baxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar.
(3) This rebellion took place in the year of 1817
(4) PM Modi released a commemorative coin and stamp on the memory of Paika Rebellion
(a) 1,2 and 4
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 4
(d) All of the above.
- Prime Minister Modi on his visit to Odisha released a commemorative stamp and coin on the Paika rebellion at the IIT Bhubaneswar on 24th December. The setting up of a Chair on the Paika Rebellion, in Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, was also announced.
- Human Resource Minister Prakash Javadekar announced that a chapter of little known Paika Rebellion will be added in the academic books from next year as the First War of Independence.
- About Paika Rebellion:
- This year marks the 200th anniversary of Paika rebellion which was led by Baxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar against the Britishers in the year 1817. This rebellion predates sepoy mutiny of 1857 which is regarded as the first war of independence.
- Paika were peasant militia under Gajapati ruler of Odisha rendering military services in wartimes and farming in peace. Suppressed by the repressive policies of East India Company, the revolt under the leadership of Baxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar, militia chief of army of Gajapati king rose the rebellion in 1817 (March- April) which spread quickly with the support of many other tribal groups in Odisha.
- This progressed with burning of police stations, administrative offices and treasury while they marched towards Khurda which led to fleeing of British officials.
- Some rebels fought a guerilla war till 1819 but were captured and killed. Baxi Jagabandhu was arrested in 1825 and died in 1829 in custody. Many others were killed and imprisoned.