Source: IE
Context: On January 17, the Punjab Chief Minister paid tribute at a function held at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla to commemorate Kuka Martyrs’ Day.
About Kuka Rebellion:
- What it is:
- The Kuka Rebellion was an anti-British uprising led by the Namdhari sect, also known as Kukas, in Punjab. The movement combined religious reform and resistance to colonial authority.
- Occurred in: The rebellion reached its peak in January 1872, with significant clashes in Malerkotla and Malaudh Fort.
- Leaders: The rebellion was spearheaded by Satguru Ram Singh, founder of the Namdhari sect, along with leaders like Kuka Hira Singh and Lehna Singh.
- Reason behind the movement:
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- Religious Reform: Opposition to social vices like meat consumption, alcohol, and foreign goods.
- Colonial Oppression: Discontent with British rule and native collaborators loyal to the colonizers.
- Cow Slaughter: Protests against cow slaughter, which deeply offended the sentiments of the Kukas.
- Events during the movement:
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- Attack on Malerkotla (January 13, 1872): Kukas clashed with officials following a cow slaughter incident.
- Assault on Malaudh Fort (January 15, 1872): A Kuka contingent attacked the fort under a pro-British ruler but faced strong resistance.
- Mass Executions: After their surrender, 49 Kukas were executed on January 17 and 17 more on January 18 by being blown up with cannons.
- Suppression: The British, led by John Lambert Cowan, acted with extreme brutality. Thousands of people were forced to witness these executions to serve as a deterrent.
- Changes after the revolt:
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- Exile of Leaders: Satguru Ram Singh and key leaders were exiled to Rangoon, Burma, marking the suppression of the movement.
- Legacy of Martyrdom: Stories of bravery, such as the sacrifice of 12-year-old Bishan Singh and Waryam Singh, inspired future resistance movements.
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