Assam saw the rise of tea plantations, labor exploitation, and British economic monopolies post Assam’s incorporation into the Bengal Presidency. Policies like the Wasteland Rules, import of indentured labor, and revenue reforms triggered widespread discontent, leading to early revolts such as those by Gomdhar Konwar and the Phulaguri uprising against colonial oppression.
Assam as Part of Bengal Presidency
After the Treaty of Yandabo (1826), Assam was merged into the Bengal Presidency.
It remained under Bengal’s political and administrative control until 1873.
During this time, significant developments occurred in plantation economy, labor policies, and early resistance movements.
Development of the Tea Industry in Assam
Beginnings of Tea Cultivation
Tea manufacturing began in Upper Assam by 1837, leading to British interest in the region.
The Assam Company was formed in 1839 to promote tea cultivation commercially.
Wasteland Rules and Land Monopoly
The Wasteland Rules (1838) made it nearly impossible for native Assamese to obtain land for plantations.
Land remained in the hands of European planters, stalling local participation.
Liberalisation of Land Policy (1854)
The Wasteland Rules were relaxed in 1854, which led to a “land rush” as private investment flooded into tea cultivation.
Labor Policies and Exploitation
Early Labor Conditions
Initially, Chinese laborers were brought in to work on plantations, but they left Assam in 1843.
Subsequently, local Kachari workers were employed for tea work.
Import of Central Indian Labor (1859 Onwards)
From 1859, laborers from Central India were imported under contractual agreements.
These contracts were unbreakable, leading to conditions akin to slavery.
Horrific Transportation Conditions
The journey to Assam was so inhumane that nearly 10% of laborers died en route.
This marked the beginning of systematic labor exploitation under colonial rule.
British Economic Monopoly
The British had a monopoly over the opium trade, further tightening their economic grip over Assam’s resources.
Native participation in profitable ventures like tea and opium was systematically restricted.
Early Resistance and Revolts Against British Rule
Gomdhar Konwar’s Revolt (1828)
Gomdhar Konwar led one of the first revolts against British rule just two years after the Treaty of Yandabo.
His rebellion was swiftly suppressed.
Revolt of 1830
Leaders such as Dhananjoy Burhagohain, Piyali Phukan, and Jiuram Medhi rose in resistance.
All were arrested and sentenced to death.
Role in the Revolt of 1857
Though Assam didn’t witness large-scale rebellion in 1857, there was non-cooperation from the public.
Maniram Dewan and Piyali Baruah were executed for alleged involvement in the Revolt of 1857.
Phulaguri Uprising (1861)
Peasants in Nagaon gathered at Phulaguri in a raiz mel (people’s assembly) to protest against taxes on betel nut and paan.
A conflict ensued between the peasants and Lt. Singer, a British officer, who was killed.
The British retaliated with violent suppression of the protest.
Conclusion
Under the Bengal Presidency, Assam underwent significant economic, political, and social changes.
While tea and revenue policies were shaped to suit British interests, the native population faced marginalisation, exploitation, and violent repression of early patriotic movements.