Why this matters now
U Tirot Sing is tested for the North-East tribal revolts theme, the early British penetration into the Khasi Hills via the Dhaka-Assam road project, and as one of the most prominent pre-1857 Northeast Indian resistance leaders.
Background: the Dhaka-Assam road
After the Treaty of Yandabo (1826) ending the First Anglo-Burmese War, the East India Company sought a road link between Sylhet (now Bangladesh) and the Brahmaputra valley through the Khasi Hills. Political agent David Scott initially negotiated with Tirot Sing’s confederacy at Nongkhlaw (Khasi syiemship) in 1827; Tirot Sing agreed in good faith.
The Anglo-Khasi War (4 Apr 1829 - Jan 1833)
When Tirot Sing learnt the British were also using the road to bring in armed troops to subdue Khasi resistance, he revoked permission and ordered them out. On 4 April 1829 Khasi warriors led by Tirot Sing’s commander U Mon Bhut attacked British outposts at Nongkhlaw and Mawphlang, killing two British officers (Burlton and Bedingfield). For four years the Khasi guerrillas held off Company forces in the rugged terrain. Tirot Sing was finally betrayed and captured in January 1833.
Dhaka prison and legacy (1835)
He was tried by the British, sent in chains to Dhaka prison, and died there on 17 July 1835 aged 33. Meghalaya observes 17 July as U Tirot Sing Day; statues stand at Nongkhlaw and Shillong. The Khasi Hills were not fully brought under direct British rule until 1862, partly because of the spirit of resistance Tirot Sing inspired.
UPSC angle
Know U Tirot Sing — Syiem of Nongkhlaw (Khasi Hills, Meghalaya), Anglo-Khasi War (4 Apr 1829 - Jan 1833), triggered by Dhaka-Assam road project after Treaty of Yandabo 1826, negotiated with David Scott, betrayed and captured Jan 1833, died Dhaka prison 17 July 1835 — U Tirot Sing Day in Meghalaya.
Frequently asked questions
Who was U Tirot Sing?
The Syiem (chief) of Nongkhlaw in the Khasi Hills who led the Anglo-Khasi War of 1829-33 against the East India Company.
Why did U Tirot Sing rebel?
He revoked permission for the British Dhaka-Assam road when he discovered the East India Company was also moving armed troops through the Khasi Hills.
Where did U Tirot Sing die?
In Dhaka prison on 17 July 1835.
How is U Tirot Sing remembered today?
Meghalaya observes 17 July as U Tirot Sing Day; statues stand at Nongkhlaw and Shillong.