A History of Assam c23.8

c23.8

Mr. Allen, the Member of the Board of Revenue, whose visit to the Khāsi and Jaintia hills has already been alluded to, came to the conclusion that the Syntengs should be required to contribute something to the general revenues in acknowledgment of the supremacy of the Government. He was of opinion that a light and judicious taxation would conduce to the preservation of tranquillity and good order in the Jaintia hills, and referred, as an example, to the Hos of Singbhum who, it was asserted, by virtue of a moderate taxation, had become less turbulent and aggressive, and more thrifty, diligent and submissive to the authorities. His advice was followed, and in 1860 a house-tax was imposed. A few months later the hillmen broke out in open rebellion, but a large force of troops was at hand, and before the revolt could make any head, it was stamped out, and the villagers were awed into apparent submission. Measures were then taken for the improvement of the administration. The powers of the dolois, or headmen, were increased, but they were made liable to dismissal for misconduct, and were required to report all criminal offences to the police.