March 19 marks the anniversary of the PEPSU Muzhara Movement, an agrarian struggle in Punjab that fought for land ownership rights for tenant farmers (muzharas). 

About PEPSU Muzhara Movement

• The PEPSU Muzhara Movement was a significant agrarian movement in the Patiala and East Punjab States Union (PEPSU) region of India.
• This movement began in the 1930s and gained momentum post-independence, eventually leading to land reforms in 1952.
• Causes: The movement arose due to the exploitative practices faced by tenant farmers (muzharas) at the hands of landlords. 
• Key issues included:  
• • It primarily focused on the rights of tenant farmers (muzharas) who were subjected to exploitative practices by landlords (jagirdars). 
  • The movement demanded fair land redistribution, reduction of exorbitant rents, and the abolition of feudal practices.
• Outcome: The movement played a crucial role in shaping land reforms in post-independence India, particularly in Punjab. Key outcomes included:  
  • Increased awareness of tenant farmers’ rights.  
  • By 1952, the struggle led to land reforms, finally granting ownership rights to tenant farmers. 
  • It is remembered as a milestone in Punjab’s agrarian history, showcasing the resilience of farmers against oppression and injustice.
• Support:The movement was supported by various political groups and peasant organizations, leading to increased awareness and eventual legislative changes to protect tenant farmers’ rights.

Who Were the Muzharas?

• Muzharas were landless tenant farmers who cultivated land for generations but did not have ownership rights. 
• Under British rule, many small farmers were forced to surrender their land and work under feudal landlords known as biswedars.
• The Exploitative System:
• • Biswedars (landlords) lived in havelis and collected one-third of the produce from tenant farmers.
  • They paid a share to the king, who then paid revenue to the British.
  • Even after independence, landlords continued demanding their share, keeping farmers in economic bondage.
• The movement sought to end this system and grant ownership rights to the farmers who tilled the land.

How the Movement Intensified after Independence

• In 1949, landlords (biswedars) attempted to reclaim land from muzharas, leading to violent confrontations in Kishangarh village.
• Tenant farmers resisted, harvested crops, and stored them for their use.
• The Patiala police intervened, leading to clashes and on March 17, 1949, a police officer was killed, and 35 muzharas were arrested but later acquitted.
• On March 19, 1949, the army surrounded Kishangarh, resulting in the death of four tenant farmers.
  • This day became a symbol of resistance and was observed annually from 1953 onward.

Key Leaders of the Movement

• Jagir Singh Joga – Organized tenant farmers and led resistance efforts.
• Buta Singh – Fought for land rights and redistribution.
• Teja Singh Sutantar – Supported the Muzhara movement through revolutionary activities.
• Sewa Singh Thikriwala – Influenced early anti-princely rule struggles.
• Bhai Jodh Singh – Spread awareness and strengthened the movement.