Archive · 7 Jan 2026
Historian Praises Umar Khalid's Thesis on Adivasi Society
Ramachandra Guha, a well-known historian, wrote about a doctoral thesis by Dr. Umar Khalid.
The thesis is about how British rule changed the lives of Adivasi people in the Singhbhum region, which is now part of Jharkhand.
Guha praises the thesis for its deep research, interesting quotes, and clear writing.
He mentions that the thesis is very good and should be published as a book.
However, Dr. Khalid has been in prison for over five years without any formal charges.
Guha feels this is unfair and hopes that Dr. Khalid and others like him will be freed soon.
Ramachandra Guha praises Dr. Umar Khalid's doctoral thesis on Adivasi society under British rule in Singhbhum.
The thesis is noted for its extensive research, vivid quotes, and clear writing.
Guha highlights the thesis's nuanced arguments and avoidance of stereotypes about tribal life.
Despite its quality, the thesis has not been published as a book because Dr. Khalid has been imprisoned for over five years without formal charges.
Guha expresses concern about the imprisonment of Dr. Khalid and other scholars and activists under dubious charges.
- Who
- Ramachandra Guha, a historian, and Dr. Umar Khalid, the author of the thesis
- What
- A praise for Dr. Umar Khalid's doctoral thesis on Adivasi society
- When
- The thesis was submitted in 2018, and the column was written later
- Where
- The thesis focuses on the region of Singhbhum, now part of Jharkhand, India
- Why
- To highlight the scholarly work of Dr. Umar Khalid and the injustices he faces
- Author
- Ramachandra Guha
- Subject
- Dr. Umar Khalid's doctoral thesis
- Focus Area
- Adivasi society in Singhbhum under British rule
- Thesis Submission Year
- 2018
- Current Status of Author
- Imprisoned without formal charges