MP Rajya Sabha Shri Niranjan Bishi Demands Conferment of Bharat Ratna on Bhagaban Birsa Munda (Posthumously)
Delhi 01.04 26 During the Zero Hour in Parliament, Shri Niranjan Bishi, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), strongly demanded the conferment of the Bharat Ratna on the National Tribals Leader, great freedom fighter Krantiveer Birsa Munda, posthumously.
Shri Bishi stated that Birsa Munda was born on 15th November 1875 in Ulihatu, Jharkhand. His vision, courage, and sacrifice elevated him as a leader of all oppressed people. For millions, he is not merely a historical figure he is revered as Dhartiabba“Bhagaban,” a divine symbol of resistance and dignity.
Shri Bishi further stated that Birsa Munda ignited a revolution. Between 1895 and 1900, he led the historic Ulgulan,the Great Rebellion,against British colonial rule, zamindari exploitation, and the forced labour system known as Beth Begari. His movement was not merely political; it was a struggle to protect the very essence of tribal identity like Jal, Jungle, Zameen.Culture, Language, Religion, Custom, tradition
Shri Bishi added that his leadership united thousands of tribals across the Chotanagpur region. He awakened self-respect, reformed society, and provided spiritual and cultural direction through what later came to be known as the Birsait movement. He fought against social evils, opposed exploitation, and instilled discipline and unity among his people.
Shri Bishi further noted that such was the fear he instilled in the colonial administration that he was arrested in 1895 and imprisoned for nearly two years.
Shri Bishi further stated that during the peak of the Ulgulan and lodged in Ranchi Jail. There, at the young age of just 25, he laid down his life on 9th June 1900 under mysterious circumstances.
Shri Bishi emphasized that his martyrdom was not in vain. The British Government was compelled to enact the historic Chotanagpur Tenancy Act of 1908, which continues to protect tribal land rights even today.
Shri Bishi further highlighted that India today has over 15 crore tribal population, comprising more than 750 Scheduled Tribes. For them, Birsa Munda is not merely a historical figure but the guiding force of their identity, dignity, and existence.
Shri Bishi said that the nation has taken a step by declaring 15th November as Janjatiya Gourav Divas.
Shri Bishi strongly and unequivocally demanded that the Government of India confer the Bharat Ratna on Bhagaban Birsa Munda posthumously.
Shri Bishi concluded by stating that the nation must send a clear message that it honours its tribal sons, and that justice, though delayed, will not be denied.
In just 25 years, Birsa Munda awakened a civilization, challenged an empire, and secured rights that continue to protect millions even today.
