The Phulaguri Uprising of 1861 is recognized as one of the earliest and most significant peasant revolts in Northeast India, marking a crucial resistance against British colonial rule.

The early 19th century in Assam was marked by significant socio-political events. Following the Treaty of Yandaboo in 1826, Assam came under British control, leading to profound changes in local governance and administration. The British administration divided Assam into two regions: Lower Assam and Upper Assam, with Guwahati and Rangpur as headquarters respectively.

David Scott, appointed as Senior Commissioner, oversaw the collection of revenue and administration, introducing several reforms that alienated the local population.

The introduction of British policies, including land revenue systems and taxation on goods, had a detrimental impact on the local tribes and peasants. This discontent set the stage for resistance movements, including the Phulaguri Uprising.

Causes of the Uprising -

1. Economic Exploitation:

  - The British administration imposed heavy taxes on land and goods, which burdened the local peasantry. The ban on poppy cultivation in 1860 and increased land revenue in 1861 particularly affected the local economy and traditional practices.

2. Cultural Disruption:

  - The prohibition of poppy cultivation disrupted traditional economic activities, as opium was a crucial part of local customs and trade. This prohibition, coupled with the introduction of new taxes, aggravated existing grievances among the tribal communities.

3. Administrative Neglect:

  - The British administration's high-handed approach and failure to address local grievances contributed to rising tensions. The local magistrates' dismissive attitude towards the peasants’ concerns further fueled discontent.

The Uprising:

1. In September 1861, around 1,500 peasants from the Phulaguri area gathered to protest against the British policies. Initially, their protests were peaceful, involving assemblies and demonstrations.

2. On October 15, 1861, the peaceful protests escalated as approximately 1,000 to 4,000 peasants, armed mainly with bamboo lathis, clashed with British authorities. The British response was aggressive, with Lieutenant Singer being killed during the confrontation.

3. The British authorities, led by General Henry Hopkinson, responded with force. The military crackdown involved severe reprisals, including the execution and imprisonment of several leaders. Key figures like Narsingh Lalung and other leaders were either hanged or banished to the Andaman Islands.

 - The uprising was primarily led by the Lalung (Tiwa) tribe, with significant participation from local chieftains and peasants. Leaders like Raja Powali and other tribal chieftains played a crucial role in organizing and leading the revolt.

 - The movement saw widespread participation from both men and women of the Lalung community. The tribal assembly, or Raij Mel, was a central platform for expressing grievances and organizing resistance.

Legacy:

  - The brutal suppression of the Phulaguri Uprising had a profound impact on the region. The harsh measures taken by the British aimed to deter further uprisings but also highlighted the deep-seated discontent among the tribal communities.

  - The Phulaguri Uprising is significant as it represents one of the earliest forms of organized peasant resistance against British colonial rule in India. It demonstrated the willingness of local tribes to fight against oppressive policies and laid the groundwork for future uprisings.

  - Despite its failure, the Phulaguri Uprising inspired subsequent movements in the region and contributed to the broader anti-colonial struggle. It highlighted the role of tribal and peasant movements in the fight for independence, influencing later resistance efforts across India.