Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The revolt of Songram Sangma was a significant tribal uprising in the early 20th century. It represents the resistance of indigenous communities against the intrusion of the colonial administration into their traditional rights over forest resources and land.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The revolt took place in 1906. It is one of the notable tribal uprisings that occurred during the early phase of the 20th century, coinciding chronologically with the Swadeshi Movement period but distinct in its cause and nature.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The revolt occurred in Assam, specifically involving the tribal communities of the region (such as the Garos). It did not take place in the Madras Presidency. The Madras Presidency saw other tribal uprisings, such as the Rampa Rebellions, but not the revolt of Songram Sangma.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The uprising was a direct reaction against the restrictive colonial forest laws. The British administration had introduced laws to classify forests and restrict the traditional rights of tribal people regarding shifting cultivation (jhum), hunting, and the collection of forest produce. This loss of livelihood and autonomy triggered the revolt.
Key Takeaway: The Revolt of Songram Sangma (1906) took place in Assam as a reaction against British forest laws that curbed tribal rights over natural resources.