Paliyam Satyagraha (1947-48)

Paliyam Satyagraha (1947-48)

Paliyam Satyagraha is the first post-independence Satyagraha organized in the state of Kerala. It was organized against the control of Paliyam road by the Paliathachans, hereditary Prime Ministers of Cochin state. The Paliyam road connects to the Chennamangalam temple, dedicated to the Lord Ayyappa. The temple is considered second only to the Sabrimala among the Ayyappa devotees.

The Satygraha was the joint effort of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP), Pulaya Mahasabha and Communist Party of Kerala and officially inaugurated by C Kesavan on 4 December 1947. C Kesavan was the second Chief Minister of Travancore-Cochin state, precursor of Kerala. It was equally supported by the Christian community and women. Some of the women leaders were P Priyadhatta, E S Saraswathi, I C Priyadhatta, Arya Pallam Arya thampuratti and Indira thampuratti.

On the 100th day of the Paliyam Satyagraha, A G Velayudhan was killed in a police lathi charge in March 1948.

Consequently, the Satyagraha led to temple entry proclamation by the Raja of Cochin on 20th December 1947 and allowed all section of people to walk through Paliyam road.

Also read: Villuvandi Samaram (Bullock cart strike)