A) The Telangana Peasant Rebellion
The Telangana Peasant Rebellion (1946–1951) was one of the most significant agrarian uprisings in Indian history. It occurred in the Telangana region of the former Hyderabad State during the rule of the Nizam. The rebellion was led by the Communist Party of India (CPI) and involved thousands of peasants, mainly from the lower castes and marginalized communities.
The rebellion was a response to severe feudal oppression. Landlords, known as doras, exploited peasants through forced labor (vethi), illegal taxes, and evictions. The Communist-led peasant unions mobilized the rural poor to demand land rights, abolition of bonded labor, and protection from atrocities.
The movement gradually transformed into an armed struggle. Guerrilla squads were formed to resist the Nizam’s forces and landlord militias. By 1948, several villages were liberated and governed through peasant committees. However, after the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union, the Indian Army intervened, and the rebellion was eventually suppressed by 1951.
Though it was crushed, the Telangana Rebellion had long-term impacts. It exposed the plight of rural peasants, contributed to the abolition of the jagirdari system, and strengthened the demand for land reforms in post-independence India. It also inspired future agrarian and leftist movements across the country.
B) Political Participation
Political participation refers to the various ways in which individuals engage in the political process. It is a key feature of any functioning democracy. Participation can be both direct and indirect, ranging from voting in elections to engaging in political debates, joining parties or movements, and participating in protests or civic activities.
In India, political participation has expanded significantly since independence, especially with the adoption of universal adult suffrage. Citizens from various social, economic, and regional backgrounds actively participate in elections at the local, state, and national levels.
However, participation is influenced by multiple factors, including education, income, caste, gender, and access to information. For example, urban and educated populations are more likely to engage in policy discussions, while rural and marginalized groups may participate through grassroots movements or community-based political action.
Political participation is vital for ensuring that governance remains representative and accountable. It empowers citizens to influence public policy, hold leaders accountable, and defend democratic values. Low levels of participation can weaken democracy and increase the risk of elite domination or apathy. Hence, inclusive and informed political engagement is crucial for sustainable democratic development.