The rebels did not have many grievances against the ‘Whites’ or ‘Sahibs.’ Their main enemy was the ‘Dikus’ (government officers). Ten thousand Santhals assembled in the field of Bhognadih on 30th June, 1855, and unanimously passed a resolution to fight the corrupt Government officials, the “Dikus.” The Dikus had betrayed them, forced them to slavery and abused their women; they had no choice but to fight them. They assembled under their leaders Sidhu, Kanu, Chand, Bhairo and pledged to fight till their Independence. A small contingent of force under Major Burrough was called to suppress the rebels, but he met tremendous resistance and was defeated at Pirpainati. The victory of the Santhals over the all mighty British further fuelled the rebellion and it spread like wildfire. ....Read more