Mangarh Massacre, 1913

Current Context: Tribal communities from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra gathered at Mangarh Dham to reiterate their demand for a separate Bhil Pradesh.

About the Mangarh Massacre:

• Also known as the “Adivasi Jallianwala” (Adivasi equivalent of Jallianwala Bagh).
• The Bhils, inspired by reformer Govindgiri, gathered to oppose forced labour, heavy taxes, and princely exploitation.
• On 17 November 1913, despite British orders to disperse by 15 November, the tribes remained, triggering a violent crackdown.
• Govindgiri and his deputy Punja Pargi were arrested; Govindgiri was later sentenced to life imprisonment.
• The site, now known as Mangarh Dham, was declared a national monument by the Government of India in 2022