Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Odisha's Paika Rebellion Omission in Textbooks Sparks Political Debate
Imagine soldiers called Paikas who used to get land for their service.
When the British took over, the Paikas lost their land and faced hardship.
They revolted in 1817, fighting against the British.
Now, there's a debate about whether this rebellion is mentioned in school books.
Politicians in Odisha are arguing about this, with some saying it's been left out.
The government and the opposition party have different views on the importance of the Paika Rebellion, trying to gain support.
The NCERT says the story will be in a later book.
The Paika Rebellion, a 1817 uprising in Odisha, is at the center of a political controversy.
Former Odisha CM expressed concern over its alleged 'omission' in NCERT's Class VIII history textbook.
Paikas were military retainers who revolted against British rule due to land and economic grievances.
The BJP and BJD parties in Odisha have both invoked the rebellion to strengthen their positions.
NCERT stated that regional resistances, including the Paika Rebellion, will be included in a forthcoming textbook volume.
- Who
- The Paikas, British East India Company, various political parties (BJD, BJP), and NCERT.
- What
- Controversy over the 'omission' of the Paika Rebellion in NCERT textbooks.
- When
- The rebellion took place in 1817. The current controversy emerged recently.
- Where
- Odisha, India.
- Why
- The omission in textbooks is considered a 'dishonor' and has become a politically sensitive issue, sparking debate among political parties.
BJD Party
BJP Party
Textbook Inclusion
BJD Party
Expresses concern over the alleged omission, calling it a dishonor to the Paikas.
BJP Party
NCERT states inclusion in later volume.
- Rebellion Name
- Paika Rebellion (Paika Bidroha)
- Year of Rebellion
- 1817
- Location
- Odisha
- Key Figures
- Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar
- Cause of Rebellion
- Loss of land, economic hardships under British rule
- Political Parties Involved
- BJD, BJP
- Textbook in question
- NCERT Class VIII History Textbook