Fetal Singh Kharwar – Tribal Rights Activist and Freedom Fighter

Born on 7 May 1885 in Bahahara village, Garhwa district, Jharkhand.
Belonged to the Kharwar tribal community, which is predominant in Palamu and surrounding regions.
His father, Lagan Singh, was the Panchayat Chief (Mukhiya) of the Chhatta area.
Due to lack of schools in the village, Fetal Singh could not receive a formal education.
Gained practical knowledge of forest, land, and water resources due to his upbringing in a forested region.
From childhood, he was skilled in using traditional weapons like Dhel Bans (a type of sling) and Jhatha (a short stick).

As per tradition, he was married at a young age to Phoolwasi, daughter of Ganga Singh from Tewar village.

Deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s movement.
Mobilized people across Garhwa to Sarguja on the issue of tribal forest land rights.
During the time of independence, felt betrayed due to the manner in which land settlement for tenants (raiyats) was conducted.

Two systems of land revenue emerged:
1. Zamindari system
2. Raiyatwari system
In tribal-dominated areas, “Dedhi-Badi” (exorbitant interest) led to the rise of bonded labor (bandhua majdoori).

Zamindari Abolition Bill was introduced in 1949, and Land Reform Act came into effect in 1950.
At the time of zamindari abolition, landlords transferred tribal lands (belonging to Kharwar, Bhokta, Pahariya, Bhuiya, Korwa etc.) to the Forest Department under the category of Bakast Gairmazrua land.
Fetal Singh continued to fight for land rights and against these injustices.

In 1958, the land rights movement turned violent.
At that time, around 76% of the region from Palamu to Sarguja was covered by forests.
On 12 January 1958, a clash occurred with a police party.
People had gathered with weapons; the confrontation led to firing.
One person named Kumbhakaran (Fetal Singh’s nephew) was killed in the firing.

After intense resistance, Fetal Singh and some of his supporters were arrested.
His health deteriorated in prison.
Leaders from Garhwa and Palamu visited and petitioned the President and Governor for his release.
Due to his status as a freedom fighter and good conduct in jail, he was granted amnesty and released.
Spent about one year in jail.

After release, he changed significantly, became aged and physically weak.
However, remained committed to land rights activism until his last days.
Passed away on 31 December 1975.
His funeral pyre was arranged next to his nephew Kumbhakaran on the banks of the Kanhar River.
Later, his ashes were buried in front of his house in Bahahara village.
His samadhi (memorial) still exists and reminds people of his struggles and legacy.

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