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Context:

January 20 marks the death anniversary of Sewa Singh Thikriwala, who spearheaded the Praja Mandal, or self-rule movement against the rulers of Punjab’s erstwhile princely states.

He died in jail while he was on a hunger strike in 1935.

About Sewa Singh Thikriwala

Early Life: He was born in the late 19th century in the village of Thikriwala, part of the princely state of Patiala, Punjab. His father Dewa Singh was a high-ranking official in the court of Maharaja Rajinder Singh.
Revolutionary Phase: He spearheaded the self-rule movement against the rulers of the former Punjabi princely states. His outspoken criticism of the Patiala Maharaja's government led the authorities to imprison him.
His fellow Akali leader Kharak Singh launched a campaign against the state demanding his release.
Meeting Gandhi: After his release in 1928, he met Mahatma Gandhi in 1931 to discuss the problems faced by the people of Punjab.
Negotiations: The Maharaja of Patiala opened negotiations with him but failed to demand an elected assembly.
The Last Phase of His Life: Died in 1935 in prison on hunger strike for ill-treatment by the prison authorities.
Memorial: After his death, a memorial is held in Thikriwala village every year in January. The government has announced that Sewa Singh's house will also be converted into a memorial.

Current developments

In 2023, the Punjab Finance Minister announced the modernization of local schools and the establishment of a medical college in Thikriwala.
Plans have also been unveiled to convert Sewa Singh's dilapidated house into a memorial site that will preserve his legacy for future generations.

Praja Mandal Movement

Punjab Riyasat Praja Mandal was established in Punjab. President – Sewa Singh Thikriwala. It was largely driven by Akali leaders.

Objectives:

To protect the civil liberties of the masses. In protest against oppressive taxes.
To strive for reforms in the conditions of the peasants.
Open educational institutions.
Have a responsible government.

Coverage: Spread over 600 princely states of British India.

Prominent leaders: Kharak Singh and Master Tara Singh.

Significance: These areas are now part of the Malwa region with some parts in Haryana and are politically active even today and have been the focus of recent farmers' agitations.