Mapping Political Change: Tehsil Depalpur under British Colonial Administration (1857–1947)

Abstract

This paper deals with the study of shift in political formations, socio-economic relations and administrative arrangements in Depalpur Tehsil during the British colonial period (1857-1947). Nestled within framework of Montgomery District in colonial Punjab, Depalpur offers a microcosm to understand the interaction between empire and society. The study traces the transition from pre-colonial decentralized authority to a structured colonial administrative system, emphasizing the role of canal colonization, land settlements, and elite collaboration. It also examines the rise of political awareness with constitutional changes and electoral activism in the early 20th century. Through detailed case studies including Depalpur town, Haveli Lakha, Basirpur, and shrine-based networks linked to Pakpattan and Shergarh the paper demonstrates how colonial interventions reshaped traditional power structures and facilitated the rise of new political actors. The research shows that colonial policy not only imposed its will but it also reconstructed local institutions and paved the way for contemporary political practices.

Keywords: Depalpur, Montgomery District, Colonial Punjab, Canal Colonies, Rural Politics, Shrine Politics, Political Mobilization