The Jaito Morcha (1923–1925) was a pivotal movement in Sikh history, showcasing the community’s unwavering commitment to religious freedom and resistance against British oppression. This historic protest took place in Jaito, a town in the princely state of Nabha (now in Punjab), and became a defining moment in the Gurdwara Reform Movement.

Table of Contents

Background: The Nabha Crisis

The British forcibly dethroned Maharaja Ripudaman Singh of Nabha in 1923, suspecting his nationalist leanings and support for Sikh causes.
After his removal, the British imposed harsh restrictions on Sikh religious practices, including interfering in Gurdwara management.
Sikhs saw this as an attack on their faith and sovereignty.

The Spark: Akhand Path at Gurdwara Gangsar

In protest, Sikhs began a continuous Akhand Path (unbroken scripture reading) at Gurdwara Gangsar, Jaito, asserting their right to worship freely.
The British-backed administration disrupted the ceremony, leading to arrests and violence.
On September 14, 1923, police arrested Sikh leaders and forcibly stopped the Akhand Path, igniting widespread anger.

The Shaheedi Jathas (Martyrdom Squads)

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Akali Dal organized peaceful protest marches (jathas) to restart the Akhand Path.
The British responded with brutal force:
- February 21, 1924 – A group of 500 Sikhs (led by Baba Kharak Singh) marched towards Gurdwara Gangsar.
- Near Guru Sar (Patiala), British troops opened fire, killing 21 Sikhs and injuring hundreds.
- Over 100 Sikhs were later martyred in repeated crackdowns.
Despite the violence, Sikhs continued sending shaheedi jathas, refusing to back down.

Victory & Legacy

The British, facing relentless resistance, finally relented in 1925:
- July 11, 1925 – The Sikh Gurdwaras Act was passed, granting control of gurdwaras back to the Sikh community.
- July 27, 1925 – All arrested Sikhs were released.
The Jaito Morcha became a symbol of Sikh courage, unity, and sacrifice, inspiring future freedom struggles.

Key Lessons from Jaito Morcha

Nonviolent Resistance – Sikhs used peaceful protests despite extreme repression.
Faith & Sacrifice – The martyrs showed unmatched bravery for religious rights.
Unity & Leadership – The SGPC and Akali Dal played a crucial role in organizing the movement.

“ਜਿੱਤ ਘਾਲੀ, ਜਿੱਤ ਘਾਲੀ, ਜਿੱਤ ਘਾਲੀ ਨਿਹੰਗਾ ॥
(Victory was achieved, O Khalsa, by the fearless ones!)

The Jaito Morcha remains a proud chapter in Sikh history, reminding us that truth and faith can overcome tyranny.

Would you like details on other Sikh Morchas (protests) like Guru Ka Bagh or Nankana Sahib? 🙏

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