A Call to Correct History: Demand for a Chair and Scholarship in the Name of Raja Arjun Singh

In a decisive step toward restoring historical justice, the Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, has urged the Government of Jharkhand to accord long-overdue recognition to Raja Arjun Singh of Porahat, one of the most valiant yet under-acknowledged heroes of India’s First War of Independence of 1857. This significant initiative has been conceptualised, initiated and consistently pursued by Col. D. K. Singhdeo (Retd.), whose sustained and determined efforts have brought this critical issue to the forefront of public and governmental attention.

In his letter dated 13 December 2025 (D.O. No. 2105) addressed to Jharkhand Chief Minister Shri Hemant Soren, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the extraordinary role played by Raja Arjun Singh in organising and leading resistance against British imperialism in the Singhbhum–Kolhan region. The letter reflects years of continuous advocacy, research and representation led by Col. D. K. Singhdeo, who has persistently pressed the matter at various levels to ensure that this neglected chapter of history is duly acknowledged.

The correspondence underscores that the legacy of Raja Arjun Singh remains deeply embedded in the collective consciousness of the region. Among the Ho, Santhal and other Adivasi communities, he continues to be revered with near-divine respect. Responding to his call, large numbers of tribal warriors joined the Porahat forces and mounted a formidable resistance against colonial rule, making this struggle one of the most significant yet overlooked episodes of the 1857 uprising.

It is further emphasized that Raja Arjun Singh’s contribution is firmly supported by documented historical research. Eminent historians such as Nagendra Prasad Verma and Dr. B. Virottam, along with former Member of Parliament Shailendra Mahato, have written extensively on his leadership and sacrifice. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress also provide authoritative academic validation of his historic role, a point that has been repeatedly and forcefully highlighted by Col. D. K. Singhdeo in his representations.

Taking into account strong public sentiment and compelling historical evidence, the Deputy Chief Minister has proposed the establishment of a Raja Arjun Singh Chair and a scholarship in his name at Kolhan University, Chaibasa. This proposal, nurtured and advanced through the persistent efforts of Col. D. K. Singhdeo, is envisioned as a meaningful step toward integrating regional freedom struggles into mainstream academic discourse and inspiring younger generations to engage with their own history.

Expressing hope for a positive response, the Deputy Chief Minister noted that institutional recognition of Raja Arjun Singh would be more than a symbolic gesture. It would represent a long-overdue act of justice to a heroic leader of the 1857 movement and a reaffirmation of the nation’s commitment to honouring those who fought fearlessly against colonial domination.