Swami Sahajanand and the Kisan Sabha Movement

Swami Sahajanand Saraswati played a pivotal role in shaping the Kisan Sabha Movement, which emerged as a significant peasant uprising in India during the early 20th century. The movement primarily aimed at addressing the exploitation and injustices faced by the Indian farmers, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Background of the Movement

The roots of the Kisan Sabha movement lay in the exploitation of peasants under the colonial British rule. After the 1857 revolt, the power of the taluqdars (landlords) increased, leading to greater oppression of the peasants. Farmers were subjected to high rents, forced labor, and unfair taxes. The situation worsened with the price rise during World War I, further aggravating the farmers’ plight​.

Role of Swami Sahajanand

Swami Sahajanand Saraswati emerged as the key leader of the Kisan Sabha Movement. He was deeply moved by the poor conditions of the peasants and believed that they needed a structured platform to voice their grievances. His leadership provided the Kisan Sabha Movement with a sense of unity and purpose.

In 1929, Swami Sahajanand formed the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), which aimed to unite farmers across India against the oppressive policies of the landlords and the colonial government. The movement focused on the issues of high rents, land reforms, and the elimination of unfair practices like sharecropping. He emphasized that the liberation of peasants was crucial for India’s independence and overall social and economic development.

Major Objectives and Impact

• Land Reforms: The Kisan Sabha demanded land reforms to ensure that landless peasants were given a fair share of agricultural land.
• Fair Rent: They called for the abolition of excessive rents and eviction practices that impoverished the farmers.
• Protection from Exploitation: The Kisan Sabha sought protection for farmers against the arbitrary practices of landlords and moneylenders​.

Under Sahajanand’s leadership, the Kisan Sabha Movement expanded rapidly, especially in Bihar, and gained momentum in other regions as well. It helped raise awareness about the exploitation of peasants, and many land reforms were initiated as a result of the movement’s pressure. This also paved the way for future peasant struggles, including the important role of peasants in the Indian freedom struggle​.

Conclusion

The Kisan Sabha Movement, under the guidance of Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, marked a turning point in the history of peasant movements in India. It not only highlighted the exploitation of farmers but also laid the foundation for future agricultural reforms. By uniting the peasants and giving them a voice, the movement played a significant role in challenging colonial exploitation and promoting social justice.