Chapter - II Shrimati Vimalabai Bagal of District m *TR.

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Chapter II

Shrimati Vimalabai Bagal - The first woman

Legislator from .

Her socio-political profile.

Early Biographical Sketch

The name Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal, goes down in the history as the first wom$n legislator to represent the Kolhapur

District in state legislative assembly. Her social and political work for the overall uplift of women, who otherwise, were unaware and deprived of their rights, was one of the inspiring sources for the other women leaders after the indenpendence of .

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was born in on 7th

May 1911. She hailed from Pawar family. Her father Ganapatrao

Balvantrao Pawar and the mother Gangabai Ganapatrao Pawar had a respectful reputation in society. Ganapatrao Pawar after his primary education became a well known and successful lawyer. Initially he practised law in Vadgaon (now known as

Madhavpur). In 1925 Pawar family moved to Kolhapur where they settled down permanently/15 16

Life in Kolhapur

After moving to Kolhapur the Pawar family became acquainted with the local customs and got involved in the social activities in Kolhapur. Ganapatrao Pawar was well aware of the importance of education, and hence got his children educated. Notably, the yelder brother of Vimlabai Dr. Appasaheb

Pawar became shining star in acadamic field. In his acadamic career, he held the outstanding positions like director of education of Bombay state, President of S.S.C. Board, Principle of , Kolhapur, and finally, he was nominated and elected as the first Vice-chancellor of ,

Kolhapur.(2)

As the Pawar family was educationally orientated, Vimlabai also received her early education. Her father was a lawyer as well as social worker which had positive influence on

Vimlabai from her childhood. Naturally, she started taking keen interest in social activities even during her student days. As far as her eanest desire to become like her elder brother to reach the peak of the higher education, she expresses her feelings in “Chintan” (pp. 2-3, 1944). “I myself always had a great ambition to be highly educated, and have my name listed among those successful academcians like my elder 17 brother. Fortunatelly, I was gifted with the desire and talent to reach my goal in life. But unfortumately due to odd circumstances and despite of my hard struggle, I could not enjoy college or University education. However, I had a determination in my mind, that in future I will see that my children will not be deprived of the opportunity for higher education. At the same time there was an anxiety, whether

I will live long enough to see my children completing their education and be an their own.”(3)

The Influence of Bagal family

On 30th May, 1928, Vimlabai was married to Shri.

Vasantrao Khanderao Bagal and thus, now she became a

member of well respected Bagal family. Bagal family had its

roots in Yalgud (Kolhapur district) but now, a well recognized

and renowned family in Kolhapur city.

Vimlabai’s father-in-law Khanderao Bagal served as a

Mamledar of , which was under the control of Maharaja

of Kolhapur. Also, as he was a graduate with the degree of

B.A.L.L.B., he was one of the well-known lawyers from Kolhapur

area. In addition to this, he was a active social worker of

Satya Shodhak Samaj founded by Mahatma Phule, the branch 18 of which was run in Kolhapur under the Royal blessings of

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Khanderao Bagal had two sons, namely Madhavrao and Vasantrao. Both the sons in those days, were educated and active in the national freedom movement. In 1947 after the independence of India the local

Praja Parishad with the cabinet of ministry was established in Kolhapur. Vasantrao Bagal had the honour of becoming the Chief-minister of the parishad. This was the background of Bagal family, when Vimlabai entered into the family as a daughter-in-law.(3) No doubt this was a great opportunity for

Vimlabai to fulfil her desire and ambition to do someting or contribute to the social welfare of the society for which, in future she devoted the major part of her life.{4)

The Bagal family in those days was very active in the work of social reform. They were one of the leading activists in the overall social changes. Vasantrao Bagal, the husband of Vimlabai, and the younger brother of Bhai Madhavrao Bagal, was well known lawyer, a man of simple and honest nature.

Bhai Madhavrao Bagal was also a very well known figure in the Kolhapur history as one of the leading social workers.

With such a sound socio-political historical background to which Vimlabai was exposed, she left no apportunity to take the fullest advantage of the situation. 19

Social work - The Beginning (1941) :

With the leadership of Mahadhavrao Bagal and Ratnappa

Kumbhar, Praja Parishad was founded in Kolhapur in 1939.(5)

This foundation of parishad was another new front for the freedom movement. Vimlabai’s husband Vasantrao was one of the loyal workers of the praja parishad. Until 1941, it seems

Vimlabai was not much involved in social activities, but she was more or less taking care of household work. There used

be regular discussions among family members in the house on the social and political issues (Chintan). In 1941, there was All India Women’s Federation held in Kolhapur. Vimlabai took a first step in the social involvement by taking part in

it. Before that, she says, she usually limited herself to the

domestic work, but it was a girl’s school near by her residence which she visited frequently. Everyday after school hours, the

girl’s in the school used to have a drama reherasal. This

drama was arranged for the entertainment of the members

of women’s federation. The name of the drama was “New and Old”. Vimlabai used to attend and listen everyday the

dialogues in the drama and finally the national spriritual song

“Vande Mataram”. She was thrilled to see that, actually women are staging the drama without any fear. One day it so happened 20 that Mrs. Ayyar, the secretary of Karveer Bhagini Mandal, visited her house^she had come with a invitation card to attend the women’s conference. Mrs. Ayyar also requested Vimlabai to become a member of reception committee of the federation.

Mrs. Ayyar^ though South Indian,was very much integrated with Maharashtra culture, told Vimlabai very firmly that, she

should not just accept the ticket of membership, but also be

an active participant in the conference. The reason, further

she emphasized that the women from all the areas are attending

the function, and that the Maharashtrian women should not

log behind. Vimlabai was rather hesitant to Mrs. Ayyar’s

statement and said “Madam what do I do ? what do I

understand?”. The Madam got upset and shouted “How can

you talk like this ?” Nobody is perfect in the beginning, but

one has to try. You attend the conference and gradually but

surely you will get to learn everything.(6)

Earlier Social Work of Vimlabai Bagal (1945-57) :

Women’s First Meeting (1943) :

With the inspiration from husband Vasantrao, Vimlabai

started taking interest in social work especially related with

the women’s problem. She started gathering of sincere and 21 working women in Kolhapur, listening to their problems and needs. To solve their problems, she decided to merge the other small women’s organisations into one single broad based

“Mahila Mandal Sangh” in Kolhapur.

The 1943, an incident occured in Kolhapur, the news of which flashed in local daily ‘Satyawadi’. This news aroused the uproar among the woman as well as general public. A noted writer and lecturer from Rajaram College in Kolhapur had married to a second woman while his first legal wife still alive. This was the case of bigamy and was injustice to the first wife. Vimlabai Bagal condemned this incident and openly expressed her resentment and disapproval in the general meeting of Mahila Mandal.{7)

Ban on Bigamy (Dwi-Bharya) Practice :

Vimlabai Bagal was deeply moved by the above mentioned incident of bigamy. She decided to call for womens meeting and then passed a bill to be sent to Kolhapur Darbar. It states:

1) A noted college teacher and well known writer has

trespassed the boundries of social ethics by marrying

a second woman when the first wife is alive. This women’s

organization strongly denounces the couple. 22

2) A man should not be allowed for second marriage when

the first wife is alive, and if such incident occurs, it should

be legally banned.

3) The Government should take immediate step to prevent

such incidents and hence, must ban legally the practice

of bigamy.{8)

The document of the aggreement was sent to Mr. Perry the chief of Regency Council. However, the college lecturer against whom the Mahiia Mandal had appealed, was rather influential figure in the high circle and hence the appeal could not hold the grounds in the Regency office, and was rejected.

But stubborn Vimlabai was not going to give up her battle.

So, the bill was sent to Bombay state assembly, where, after much debate, the bill was passed. This was the victory not only for Mrs. Bagal, but of the overall cause for women’s movement.*9*

Mrs. Vimlabai Bagal’s Entry into socio-political life :

Vimlabai’s husband Vasantrao, his yelder brother Bhai

Madhavrao Bagal, the well known freedom fighter, were believer in left wing idealogy. Naturally, she also came under the influence of such idealogy. It was not just the influential 23 factor but she herself was convinced in the philosophy of such ideology. As a result, Vimlabai became an active member of Shetkari Kamgar Party (Peasant and Worker Party).

In 1949, after merging of Kolhapur Sansthan (Kingdom) with Bombay province, Kolhapur became an independent new district under the control of Bombay province. As Kolhapur was more inclined towards left wing ideology the peasent worker party came into existance is a separate national political party.(10) Madhavrao Bagal was one of the aggressive political leaders of the party. Unfortunately, at this time Vimlabai was deeply grieved by the premature death of her husband.

However, she managed to control herself, and got involved into party’s movements.

Vimlabai Bagal’s Work in Kolhapur Municipality (1948-56):

Vimlabai Bagal was nominated by peasents and workers party to contest the election for Kolhapur Municipal Council.

She got elected with considerable majority of votes. As a municipal councilor, she had an opportunity to serve in various public departments and she proved her credibility by doing an excellent job in the service of common people. 24

During her tenure, she held the position of chairmanship of health and sanitdtry department (1950). With great efforts,

Vimlabai got sanctioned the land for the construction of maternity home and the necessary financial aid to run it for needy women, who otherwise, were unable to afford the expenses for such facilities. The same Maternity Home later on was nominated after that great reformist woman, Savitribai Phule, the wife of the devoted social reformist Jotirao Phule. Vimlabai had to struggle very hard and go through all sorts of obstacles before this Maternity Home became a reality. On 1st August,

1951 the Maternity Home (Sutikagraha) was inaugrated by A Shri. T. C. Karkhanis under the presidentship of Rajvaidya

Dr. Yashvantrao Govindrao Gune. For the inaugural ceremony, all the members of Bhagini Mandals, dignitaries from various organizations, man and women from all the classes of society attended the function.

Another important and valuable factor on the part of

Vimlabai’s work was, that she started the first “Balwadi’ school for children in Kolhapur. She writes her view (Chintan) regarding this school that - you may call it as a nursery school or kinder garten, all you need to do is provide some basic amenities and proper guidance and you have achieved what you want. 25

To start a Balwadi school, all that you need is a black board, chalk, notebooks, slates, pencils and some children playthings.

Such things are not very expensive and one can manage to give primary education to the children without making a big fuss out of nothing.

In public opinion, Vimlabai soon came to be known as

a studious and devoted social worker. As a result, she was

elected to the Municipal Council for the second time with wide

margin. She represented the peasents and workers party which « L had a strong lobby in Kolhapur Municipalty. She became one

of the powerful influential person in socio-political field, not

only in Kolhapur, but in nearby districts also and eventually

all over Maharashtra.(11)

As a Municipal Councior she handled various issues

related with public health, water supply, vidi kamgar, sweepers,

municipal labourers etc. She was very sincere and honest

in her work and was punctual in attending all the meetings

of the council. She was able to solve many of the social

problems that common citizens faced with. In some cases,

she was not able to overcome the problems, but she seems

not to give up her efforts. 26

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the first law minister of India, an architect who drafted the consititution of India and a great social reformist who fought for the equality and uplift of backward class, visited Kolhapur in 1952. Vimlabai Bagal took the opportunity to meet him. She arranged his public address in Rajaram Talkies (theatre) in Kolhapur. Dr. Ambedkar gave a very dynamic speech to the audience in the theatre which was literally housefull. Not only that, but many people who could not get the place inside were listening from outside the theatre. He spoke for about 2 to 3 hours regarding wrong

practices in religion, abuse of humanity, unjustful discrimination against low class people. He also talked about the rights of women in society as they have been always given ill treatment.

Large number of women representing various Mahila Mandals,

also attended Dr. Ambedkar’s lecture. The vote of thanks was given by Vimlabai Bagal. Later on, the bill for women’s right

of inheritance (Hindu family act) of property was passed to

be incorporated in Indian constitution.*12*

The first woman Legislator from Kolhapur District - Shrimati

Vimlabai Bagal (1957) :

Second general election was held in 1957. In this election 27

Peasant’s and Workers partry and Maharashtra Akikaran Samiti

(also refers as Sanyyaukta Maharashtra Samiti) formed an alliance in opposition to the congress party. The most important part of this election was that a woman candidate from Kolhapur district was contesting for the state assembly. This woman candidate was none other than Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal who was nominated by the alliance to contest from the Kagal constituency. Because of the popularity and powerful lobby of the alliance between the peasants workers party and

Maharashtra Akikaran Samiti, Congress party was rather in trouble and had to face the tough challenging opposition.

Vimlabai was contesting the election from Kagal constituency

(centre No. 185) of Kolhapur district/135 The congress party had nominated Shri. Daulatrao Appaji Nikam as its candidate.

The other contestants were Appasaheb Bhausaheb Magdum,

Bhaurao Mallappa Minch and Shrimati Indumati Dattatraya

Rashingkar as independent candidates/145 But later on all the independant candidates withdrew their applications. As a result, it became a straight and crucial tussle between the congress party and opposition alliance party. The voting took place on

12 March 1957, and the official result was declared on 17th

March 1957. The verdict was crystal clear. Vimlabai had a 28 clear mandate in the voting margin. She had a land-slide victory over her opposition candidate. She secured 24.401 votes (72,40%) against her opponent Shri. Daulatrao Nikam who could manage to secure only 9,305 votes (20.60%).{14)

This clearly indicates that, because of Vimlabai’s sincerity,

honesty and devotion for public service, she was over whemingly popular among the general public.

In the general election of 1957, 91 candidates of Samiti

were elected as legislators to Bombay Assembly, out of them

only Vimlabai was the woman legislator. It is of significance

to note here, about the report in the praise of Vimlabai’s

social work that was published in the famous news paper,

“” of P. K. Atre after her election to assembly.{15)

“Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal of left wing ideology, in the initial

period of her political carreer, was elected to the Kolhapur

Municipal Council. As a councillor, and under her leadership,

several hospitals, maternity homes and clinics for the welfare

of women and children were started. She struggled for the

rights of women labourers as well as for widows, who were

otherwise, discriminated and ill treated in the society. They

were given the opportunities for the work so that they can

support themselves. She took leadership in implimenting the 29 ban on bigamy practice. She had taken an active part in the movement for the formation of “Sanyukta Maharashtra”. This woman Shrimati V. Bagal is now overwhemingly elected as a legislator from Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district."{16)

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal’s Work as a legislator (1957-62):

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was the only one woman legislator belonging to ‘Maharashtra Akikaran Samiti” and therefore she became a spokeman for the cause of womens welfare, along with other social work. She was hardworker, studious and very sincere in attending all the conferences and important meetings in Assembly. She not only tackled the questions and issues but also followed them up till they were resolved rationally. She directed her questions which were not just concerned with her own constituency, but they were also related with all the parts of Maharashtra state. She always raised her voice to appeal against any injustice or persecution of human being any where in the state or outside. She boldly spoke about the ever growing inflation and unemployment.

Before, asking any question or raising any issue, she would always make a thorough study of it, review it from the point of view of common people, and bring it to the attention of 30 concerned minister in power or the concerned responsible

Government officer incharge. Very soon she came to be known as a sincere and devoted woman legislator whose image was as clean as a clean water.(17)

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal, when she came to Bombay for the first time as a woman legislator to attend the assembly confernce she was warmly received by huge crowd of her party workers which included a large number of women. The news papers in Bombay published the reports of her arrival and the warm reception that she received. The famous and widely circulated Marathi news paper “Maratha” of P. V. Atre gave a bold letter news on 27th March 1957, about her forth coming arrival in Bombay.

The headline of the news was “Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal will arrive in Bombay on Saturday”. Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal, an elected woman legislator from Kagal constitency of Kolhapur district, will be given a welcome party on Saturday the 30th

March evening by women’s federation of Bombay region. At that point in time women’s federation had started the movement * against bilinguAstic state.

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal served as a member of le$isJative assembly (MLA) from the period 1957 to 1962. Her work 31 and contribution as a woman ligislator in various fields is very commendable and hence noteworthy. The present generation should realize and appreciate, how a woman though not much educated, can advance in the field of social work to achieve the goal for which she was destined. To make a comprehensive analytical review of her socio-political profile as a woman legislator, it would be more understandable and appropriate to classify her work into different categories. The information regarding her work was collected from her biographical book

‘Chintan”, debates from Bombay Legislative Assembly, the articles published in various news papers and the other available material in the form of references/18)

Linguistic State (Sanyukta Maharashtra Movement) :

Regarding the views on linguistic states (Unilingnal states)

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was firm about the formation of the greater Maharshtra state (Sanyukta Maharashtra) which will include all the geographical regions where Marathi is the major spoken language. So, the Sanyukta Maharashtra movement was basically to have included Bombay, Belgaum, Nipani and other border small regions into greater Maharashtra. In assembly she made a statement that, we have grown up in our Indian 32 culture and we are all united. All Indian people regardless of religion or language, belong to one joint family. The central government is the head of the family and hence, has to listen to all the members. Since the Government has decided to form different states on the linguistic basis we in Maharashtra must agitate to have all Marathi speaking regions to be included in Maharashtra state. This was the Sanyukta Maharashtra

movement. The main reason behind this revolutionary movement was that, the central government had rejected the Bombay

region to be included in Maharashtra state. Protest marches

and the demonstration were held in Bombay, Kolhapur,

Belgaum, the border areas between Maharashtra and

Karnataka, and also in other major cities. The people taking

part in these marches were subjected to the tear gases,

lathimar and at some places even they had to face ruthless firing by police. In Bindu Chawk of Kolhapur where large

number of people had gathered during the late evening time, the fuses were blownup, and there was indiscriminate gun firing in the darkness. Number of agitators were injured and

some other became paralysed, disabled or lost their lives -

Vimlabai Bagal was very much disturbed and angered by this

incidence. She said that when the foreigners (British) were 33 ruling the India, we experienced their cruelity and inhuman treatment to the freedom fighters, but today we live in an independent nation, where our own police officers are attacking our own innocent people who are demanding the justice. This is unacceptable in democracy and very much regretable on the part of government.*20*

In assembly, Shrimati Bagal demanded to appoint judicial inquiry committee to investigate the police firing. During the debate in assembly Shrimati Bagal forwarded a move to appoint the inguiry committee on the tragic incident of police firing.

She said, the word Government has a very broad meaning which covers the protection and care of its own people. But the incidence of police firing concerns me deeply. On one hand we talk about having Ramrajya type of policy in our government, but on the other hand our political leaders do not seem to have understood the meaning of it. The ideal

Ramrajya means to have open mind and generous attitude towards its own people. Shrimati Bagal also cited the example of the great Maratha king Shivaji, who, she said, always had impartial judicial system. 34

Educational work :

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was very well aware of the fact that education is a fundamental right of the people, because it plays important role in creating general awareness in the public, specially primary and secondary education lays the foundation for the overall progress of the community and thus, of the nation. She also knew and often emphasised that women in the society can better themselves only if they get proper education.

In Assembly, whenever there was any debate related with education, schools or school children or school teachers, she always took active part in the discussion. In 1957, the topic on the floor (legislative assembly hall) was “Expansion of Bombay legislative council”. Vimlabai was against this

proposal. She said considering overall economic condition and working system, we can not afford to spend more funds on

increasing the membership. From municipal council to state council, everywhere we hear the word of saving the funds

by cutting down the expenditure, practically in every field

including the number of workers, teachers and many other

essential organizations. On one hand we talk and talk about

cutting down the expenditure and at the same time ironically 35 we propose the expansion of legislative council. She said that, she regrets very much when even the small local educational institutions were asked to cut down the expenses on the vitally essential primary education. Nobody considers the large number of school children per teacher. We all know that our economy is poor and we can not afford to spend money on every aspect of the society. Under the circumstances, how can we selfishly discuss or propose to expand the legislative council and direct our funds for such unnecessary cause. Instead, we should concentrate more on education and other essential means. In response to her statement, the speaker of the house said that any council members should not pass such statement because government does not have any such intention. In reply, Vimlabai Bagal says that, “I would like to bring only one point to the attention of government that, instead of expanding the legislative council which at present status, is unnecessary. We should discuss the things which are more important and related to welfare from the general public point of view, and this is my earnest request to the government.(21)

From the very beginning of her career as a legislator

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal always gave more importance and 36 value for primary education, as well as for college education, as she herself, because of certain difficulties, could not fulfil her desire for higher education. Using her position as a legislator, she appealed to the government to grant the funds for schools and necessary facilities to run them. The government is committed to fulfil some of the expectations of the people which include the upgradation of social and cultural level.

This can be achieved only by the spread of primary education at all the levels in the society, regardless of any social or traditional barriers. This requires appropriate funding and expenditure. Vimlabai in her discussion in the assembly gave on example of Kolhapur district.

The responsibility of primary education has been

handed over to Kolhapur municipality. However, the financial asiistance provided is not enough to run the primary schools.

As a result, the standard of education in public schools is declining and can not reach to the level of stisfaction. She further emphasises that the learning for those little boys and girls begins from pre-primary (Bal-Mandir) levels. But such small regional institutions have been neglected from the state financial budgets. This is very sad affair, because these children are tommorrows new generations from whom we 37 dream to build up progressive and prosporous nation. We also see that the secondary education is no exceptions from the negligence from governments financial budgets. This is a matter of grave concern for future generation. Look at the current budget allotted for education from public revenue. It is Rs. 19,68,57,000/- which is to be spent on university, college and high school education. But unfortunately it does not seem to have any separate budget or any specific amount to be spent on pre-primary education. I feel very sad for this apathy shown by the budget committee towards pre-primary education. In this context, I scanned through the book of second five year planning commission, and found following information.

Sourashatra has kept aside Rs. 2,68,000 for schools (Bal

Mandir) and Rs. 1,25,000 for the training of teachers. Vidarbha has been granted to spend Rs. 3,85,000 for Bal Mandir. But what about Bombay state and Marathawada? Have they committed any sin ? This is very pathetic for the children in this area. Shrimati Bagal made a very strong statement regarding above mentioned problem in the debate held on

5th July 1957.(34) She said that University, college and high school education is run by the department of education. But it seems that there is no one care taker for pre-primary (Bal-

Mandir) schools. Remember that these little children are the 38 founding pillars of the future generation. If they are deprived of proper education in their learning ages, they will be on the wrong track, and the over all development of the entire nation will be on the shaky grounds.(22)

Primary Education Amendment Bill (28 March 1958) :

On 28 March, 1958, Vimlabai Bagal proposed amendment

bill regarding the administration of local school board and

municipal school board. She brought up the point of injustice that is being given to the primary teachers, and therefore, government should take serious consideration of this amendment

bill. She said that members of the assembly should welcome this bill, and so also the minister of education. According to this bill, two educational officers are to be appointed. They

are (1) Chairman of school board and (2) Education inspector.

With reference to this bill, Shri. S. M. Joshi proposed to have

a tribunal so as to supervise the working of school boards.

The government however, did not pass the bill on the grounds that the school board chairman and inspector may not agree

with each other and eventually, the government will have to

intervene to solve the dispute for final outcome. Therefore,

this kind of amendment will not give any justice to the 39 grievarances of the teachers. Shrimati Bagal was disapponted with this, and asked the question whether the government is really interested in some sort of reforms in the present educational system or not? So^she again requested the speaker of the house, that the tribunal suggested by Shri.

S. M. Joshi is justifiable and be approved. The representatives elected by the people will be appointed under this tribunal, and hence they will be in a position to judge any justice or injustice that is afficting the teachers and school boards.

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal, no doubt, was very much eager in bringing the changes in the educational system for the better future of our children. She always believed that well educated and cultured children of present generation will bring bright and prosporous future for tommorrow.(23)

Women’s Right :

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was the first woman legislator

in Bombay state assembly (Kagal constituency) of Kolhapur district. One should never forget and must applau d her

consistent efforts and struggle for the uplift of the overall position

and standard of woman in the changing society. As a woman,

she was quite aware of the problems of women. Specially

of those who belonged to working and poor classes. She had 40 realized that historically women have always been given a secondary status, or in some communities no status of any sort but to run the household activities only. With this concept in mind Vimlabai took every opportunity to fight for the women’s right.

In one of the debates in Bombay assembly she said,

One can count on fingers the number of women like us who have awakened to the reality of tody’s woman and her importance in the participation in socio-political activities.

Therefore, some women should be given priorities as a representatives in local school boards and municipal councils.

This will give them an apportunity to get acquainted with socio-political affairs as well as some incentives to advance in their political career. In response to this statement, one critic made a remark that, though women were given priorities in last election they could not contest the political elections, may be because political or social circumstances were not quite favourable for them. Shrimati Bagal in her reply said that, I would like to state here that the number of women who were willing to contest the election was very low, it does not matter whether it was one or ten but women like us would not be statisfied unless some seats are reserved for them. 41

Therefore, I am of the opinion that, initially they should be given priorities in local and municipal school boards. Then and then only the roads will be cleared for them and they will have inspiration and courage to show their ability, and increase their participation number in political affairs of the state assembly. I, therefore request all the ministers of the legislative council to look into the matter of the problems and difficulties that is hindering the progress of local and municipal institutions.

Regarding the participation of woman in the local ‘Gram

Panchayat” i.e. the village committee of five people, Shrimati

Bagal was very critical about the working system which according to her was discriminatory against women. She was doubtful about reservation of seats for women in the gram panchayat. Though there is a clause in the bill to reserve some seats for women in the gram panchayat it will take some time for them to be prepared mentally and socially to be eligible to handle the responsibility up to their ability. Therefore, Shrimati Bagal further says that until women rise to that level, the clause of reservation for women should be continued to be included in the bill.

14486 42

Rescue Homes in the State (Unstarred Questions) (30 Sept.

1958) :

The questions and answers were as follows :

6453 (13.6.58) Shrimati V. V. Bagal (Kagal) will be the

Hon. Minister for social welfare to be pleased to state -

1) What is the number of rescue homes in the state and

which are these homes ?

2) How many women were admitted to these homes during

the last five years and how many of them were sent

back to their parents or guardians^

3) How many of these women were -

a) Destitutes

b) Those leading immoral Life or

c) Those who were kidnapped or abducted.

4) Whether any such homes are being run by private

institutions.

5) If so how much grant in-aid is being paid to these

institutions ?

6) What is the annual expenditure incurred by Government

on such homes ?

7) What attempts are being made by Government to improve

the life of women admitted to these homes ?

Answer Shri. N. K. Tirpude :- (25-7-58). 43

1) It is not possible to state the number of all the rescue

homes in the state as there is no compulsary registration

of such homes.

2) Government pays grants to certain private institutions

in the state for prevention and rescue work and list of

such institutions is enclosed. (Statement-I)

Regarding the policy of the Government for the education of women especially related with the Aurangabad district region of Marathawada which was considered to be backward, Shrimati Bagal expressed her feelings in one of the published articles and then she brought up this matter in the assembly debate. She said that the Government of

India has sanctioned Rs. 7,50,000/- to be alotted to the state government for the education of girls in the schools. As our

Maharashtra state is rather backward in the literacy and education in Marathawada region as far as women are concerned, it is the moral responsibility of our government to provide and share larger finnacial assistance to the cause of girls education in this area. There are very few girls schools in Marathawada, may be hardly one or two schools in a district.

Same is the condition in case of higher education for women colleges one, can count on fingures the number of womens 44 colleges or training schools in the state. If a woman is married it is practically impossible for her to leave a family behind and go to some other town or city for higher education. It is a duty of the government to build ladies hostels and pay full stipend for such needy women. Under the circumstances our government must pay more attention and direct the funds to such backward areas, so that the regional women could achieve the desired goal and some sort of social status in the community.(24)

Social Work :

During her tenure as a legislator, Shrimati Vimlabai

Bagal carefully looked into the matters of social problems, reform movements of backward classes and the grievances of poor farmers. One should note that any topic that came on the assembly floor, whether it was initiated by herself or by some other member, Vimlabai took keen interest in it, studied it and actively participated in the discussion to express her personal view.

There was incidence of attack by Hindus on the members of Matang community of Eukerka village on 16th December

1957, she expressed her deep regret and said that such kinds 45 of incidences in the society are deplorable and one should think seriously about it. A youth from untouchable community is accused of theft and because of this he and other two or three members of his family were beaten to death. There was no justifiable reason to go to this extreme action by Hindus.

No matter what the reason is, there should be some law and order and the political party in power must see that it is maintained properly regardless of caste or religion.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar has set some ideals before the society and the government should see that they are effectively carried out. We the members of legislative council are here, not just to express verbal regrets but to make sure that the people from untouchable community get proper protection against such inhuman acts.{25)

As Shrimati Bagal was closely associated with the farmers, she knew their problems very well, and always had symphathy for their poor condition. She knew what kind of hardships farmers and farm labourers go through to cultivate the lands. But they do not get reasonable returns for their farm products and also they do not have adequate facilities like godowns for storage. Shrimati Bagal raised this point in assembly discussion and said that government should provide 46 godowns and safe guards for the farm products. Considering the expansion of agricultural field in the state and increase in the farm products, farmers can not store the grains in their houses. And hence the government should undertake the construction of new ware houses, so that farmers can have safe storage facilities until they get reasonable prices for their products. At the same time one should note the point that wherever such godown facilities are available, farmers are charged taxes, which some poor illiterate farmers think are unreasonably high. So, there should be some way of counciling to such farmers and they should not be exploited of the situation.

“Prevention of fragmentation and cosolidation of holdings" was one of the hot and controversial topics for debates in the state assembly.(26)

Shrimati Bagal made her statement : Before passing any bill or implementing any law, government should take into consideration the opinion of the people in general. But the government is not carrying its responsibility of making the people understand merits and demerits of any bill that is being proposed to be approved. People have right to know the complications and the consequences of the bill of fragmentation of cultivating lands and their consolidations of holdings. 47

Maharashtra state is predominantly a land of agricultural occupation, and majority of rural people depend upon the farming. For poor farmers or farm labourers, agriculture is the only source of survival. As per the new bill of fragmentation and consolidation, if the farmers are paid money for their small piece of land, what are they going to do with the money?

Just for the monetary returns no farmer will give up his land no matter how smaller or tinier it is. Those farmers who do

not own the land, but are cultivating it for some landlord may agree for the above bill. But for those farmers whom the land

is livelihood for generations to come they will never give it

up at any cost. This is the mentality they have today.

Implimentation or execution of any law is solely under the authority and control of government officers. These officers

use their authority and carry out the work with the help of

police force. In such action, government does not take into consideration the general consensus or the feelings of the

people.

This creates resentment and distress among the people.

Shrimati Bagal further said that the fees imposed on farmers for this prevention of fragmentation and consolidation of holdings

bill, and thereafter the process of land measuring was 48 unreasonable and exorbitant. And more over payment or collection of such fees are made compulsary for which many poor farmers can not comply with it. So, such collection should be restrained. Under the circumstances, the government should take into consideration the poor economic conditions of small farmers as well as those who were tenants. Keeping in mind all the small poor farmers in Maharashtra state and convinced that this bill is not meant for the the protection and welfare of them Shrimati Bagal opposed the approval of it.(30)

There was a bill called Trees Bill’ proposed by the government. According to this bill the uncultivable land in the state will be inspected by the government agency and such lands will be given to the backward class people for the plantation of trees. Shrimati Bagal expressed her unwillingness to pass this bill saying that the honorable member who has brought up the idea of this bill. I do not know how much he is associated with it. I do not want to challenge the idea that the plantation of trees will increase the rainfall. But the plantation of trees alone is not going to solve the problems of poor farmers who are more desirous to have their own small piece of land for cultivation. She further said that farmers have more knowledge in the field of agriculture as to where 49 and how many trees to be grown in a particular soil, and the relation between trees and particular crop. For this matter, the government should take the advise from the farmers who have expertise as well as experience in this matter. In this way those poor farmers and poor people from backward class who are deprived at their own farming land, can be given such uncultivable lands and necessary motivation and assistance should be provided by the government. Therefore, passing this bill which is meant for tree plantation only, will not solve the problem of grain shortage that we are facing today.(27)

In addition to other social works for the welfare of the people, Shrimati Bagal was also a strong supporter of social reforms. She was very much against caste system and so called high-class and low-class people in the society. On

December 9, 1959 ‘Prevention of Excommunication Bill’ was put forward for discussion in the assembly. She participated in the debate and said that the Kolhapur Sansthan (refering to the great Shahu Maharaj) had taken a leading step in the social reform movement especially related with the discriminate^ social systems which was based on caste, religion and creed. When a man is bom he is a simple human 50 being without a tag of any caste or religion. But our society during the course of time, has given the birth to this discriminatory caste system. In old days this system was devised on the concept of division of labour. There were rich and poor people, people were doing their jobs according to their living or capacity. But during the course of time it rigid compartments were created by the people in the society. Social reformers started the movement against this social inequality.

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal also took interest in other social work, the areas other than mentioned above. Such areas may not be very significant from the point of view of affecting common people, but it clearly shows how she was sincere in her responsibility as a member of legislative council. On

8th April 1958, she put forward motor vehicles (Taxation of passengers) bill. She said the pasengers along with their luggages are primarily using the vehicles of state transport corporation for their travelling purposes from one place to another. But government is imposing taxes at the rate at 10% of regular fares on such passengers and their luggages.

These taxes are collected through S. T. corporation. Now, the corporation is not going to pay such taxes from its own earnings but pass it on to the passengers. The poor passengers 51 have to bear this burden directly or indirectly. As Railway transport is not available every where, other than major towns or cities, poor people depend upon S. T. for travel for jobs or transport of goods etc. So according to Shrimati Bagal this unafordable taxation is unfair and the concerned department of government should understand the reality.(28)

Local work (Kagal constituency of Kolhapur) :

As Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal was elected as a woman legislator from Kagal constituency of Kolhapur district, with a over whelming majority of votes, she was always conscious and eager to regress the grievanees of the people of Kagal

Taluka as well as the whole Kolhapur district. During her tennure she raised many starred or unstarred questions in assembly, which were closly associated and affecting her region in one way or the other. Some of the important questions and answers are summarized as follows.

On 10th April 1958, she asked the starred questions in assembly, which were addressed to the honorable minster of revenue. They were regarding the applications for grant of waste land. The questions were ; 52

1) How many applications for grant of waste land in Kagal

taluka of Kolhapur district were received by the

government during the last five years?

2) How many of these applications were granted and how

many of them were pending?

Shri. Shamrao Chavan, the revenue minister answered the questions, stating that 22 applications were granted and remaining 24 were rejected because such waste lands were not available. (29)

Regarding the health problems of the people of Kagal

Taluka, she directed her question to the minister for Public

Health. The questions were how many medical centres and maternity homes have so far been opened in Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district ? Shri. M. S. Konnamwar the concerned official of the health minister of Bombay government gave the answer as - that the government dispensaries and local board dispensaries (Ayurvedic) have been opened on 25th

April 1958. Shrimati Bagal raised questions (starred) regarding the security of drinking water in Kagal taluka. She said, will the hon. minister for public health be pleased to state -

1) Whether the government is aware that there is an acute

shortage of drinking water at certain places in the rural

areas of Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district. 53

2) If so what action has government taken or does the

government propose to take in matter ?

3) How much expenditure has government incurred on

digging drinking water wells in the taluka during last five

years?

On these questions, the conceerned minister Dr. N. N. Kailas answered as follows -

1) There is no acute shortage or scarcity of drinking water

in any of the villages of Kagal taluka .

2) So. it does not arise in view of reply to clause.(30)

On 29th Sep. 1958, Shrimati Bagal raised several questions with reference to repairs of temples in Kagal taluka.

These questions were addressed to the minister for revenue-

1) What was the total income and expenditure of Devasthans

in Kagal taluka of kolhapur district during last five years?

2) What is the annual grant-n-aid sanctioned to these

Devasthans ?

3) Whether the government is aware that primary schools

are conducted on the premises of some of the temples

which are under the management of these Devasthans.

4) Whether the government is aware that these temples are

present in a dilapidated conditions, as the income of

Devasthans is not sufficient to carry out necessary repairs. 54

5) If so what action has government taken or does the

government prapose to take in the matter ?

Following answers were given by Shro. Shankarao Chavan on behalf of Rasiklal V. Parikh

1) The total income was Rs. 1.02.285 and the expenditure

was Rs. 64,061.

2) Nil

3) Yes

4) Only 24 temples are in dilapidated condition.

5) The repair works in respect of these 24 temples is being

taken up according to the programmes.(31)

Not quite satisfied with the answers, Shrimati Bagal followed up the topic for further clarification and asked more questions.

The debate went like this -

Shrimati Bagal > After the expenditure of income allotted to the repairs work of temples, about Rs. 32,224 were available as unspent, why that remaining amount is not being spent to complete the repair work.

Shri. Shankarao Chavan The repair work has been undertaken for 24 temples out of which two have been completed, another two will be completed sooner, and repair works of remaining 55 temples will be completed within the period of three years.

Shrimati Bagal The conditions of some of the temples are so bad that they are beyond repairment. So, is there any plan to construct new temples instead of repairing the old ones.

Shri. Chavan Government does not have any such information.

Shrimati Bagal May I know what type of exact programme has been taken for repair work of the above mentioned 24 temples?

Shri Chavan The repair work programmes has been projected to be completed in next five years?

Shrimati Bagal The premises of these temples which are already in bad condition have been used by primary schools for their classes. If such temples are not repaired speedily there is a danger to the lives of school children and hence, is the government aware of this fact?

Shri Chavan Yes indeed, and that is why the orders have been issued to speed up the work.(32)

From above debate it is quite clear about the exact motive behind Shrimati Bagal’s repeated questions regarding the repairy of temples. What she was trying to suggest the government was, to construct separate and independent new schools for children and let the temples remain as temples for worship. 56

Regarding dangerous and communicable diseases like leprosy and its impact on the whole community in Kolhapur area Shrimati Bagal was very conscious about the conditions of leprosy patients, hospitals, clinics, medical treatments, and most of all the availability and contributions made either by local boards, municipality and government for such patients.

She raised several questions in assembly regarding this matter.

These questions were addressed to the minister for public health Shri. M. S. Kannamwar and Dr. N. N. Kailas. The important questions were -

1) Whether the district local board of Kolhapur and Kolhapur

municipality have paid their contributions toward the

leprosy fund since 1953.

2) If so what is the amount ?

The answers given to these questions were that there are no such funds as leprasy funds. However, local bodies are requested to pay the maintanence and hospita bills for such patients. In this respect local boards and municipality of Kolhapur have not to paid any such charges from 1953 to 1958. The necessary bills have been sent to them.

In response, Shrimati Bagal asked whether they have been imposed and reminded of such bills. The answer was 57 that there is no clause (3) for such questions (No. 6732).

Shrimati Bagal pursued the matter of leprosy patients,

their medical treatment and care in Kolhapur area on 15th

Oct. 1958. She again raised the questions in assembly regarding

the leper colony in Kolhapur.

These questions were -

1) When was the leper colony at Kolhapur established ?

2) How much expenditure was incurred on the colony every

year during last five years ?

3) How much amount does the state government recieve

from central government every year for providing treatment

to leprosy patients in the state ?

4) How much of this amount is allotted to Kolhapur district?

The answers were given by the minister for public health,

Shri. M. S. Kannamwar were

1) In June 1944.

2) The total expenditure from the year 1953 to 1958 was

Rs. 3,30,989.

3) The government of India does not pay any grant for

treatment of leprosy patients, but pays in the form of

subsidary for the establishment and maintenance of

such centres for the treatment of patients. The amount 1

58

of subsidary was Rs. 58,009 during the year 1957-58.

4) Rs. 1,326 was alotted to the centre in Kolhapur during

1957-58J33)

The above questions and answers in assembly clearly indicates how Shrimati Bagal was concerned about the rehabilitation of leprosy patients in kolhapur area. The people who were affected with this horrible disease were mostly poor people and were subjected to ‘out cast’ from the society. But

Vimlabai always cared for their well being from the humanitarian point of view.

Shhmati Bagal was also interested in the sale of various public properties in Kagal taluka and to find out if there are any hidden illegal deals in the favour of any particular section of the society. On the 24th Oct. 1958, she asked questions addressing to the minister for public works.

1) Whether it is fact that goverment has decided to sale

a bunglow on the bank of Jaysing lake and a

Dharmashala Hatti Mahal belonging to the former Kagal

state (Junior) in Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district.

2) Whether Kagal municipality has requested the government

to hand over these properties for extending municipal

area of Kagal city. 59

3) If so what action government has taken or propose to

take on the request of the municipality ?

The answers were given by P. B. Tacher for D. S. Desai.

They were

1) No, only Hatti Mahal building is proposed for sale.

2) No, the municipality has asked the property for housing

its Harijan temples.

3) The matter is under consideration/34*

Shrimati Bagal then asked the question as to under whose

control the lake side bunglow and dharmashala is at present

and for what purpose ? The answer was that the bunglow

is proposed to be used by police departments and the Hatti

Mahal is claimed by municipality as well as by the person who occupies it at present. This discussion went on further

without any satisfactory explanation on part of government

about the deal as Kagal municipality wanted the Hatti Mahal

either gratis or at low charges than the market value.

Conclusion

Shrimati Vimlabai Bagal served as a member of Bombay

state assembly from the period 1952 to 1962 and she did

a very good job justifying her election. She probably had the 60

inborn quality of social service. To add into that, she was

related with such great personalities like her husband Shri.

Vasantrao Bagal, her brother-in-law Shri Madhavrao Bagal,

her father-in-law Shri Khanderrao Bagal who were actively

involved in social and political activities of Kolhapur Sausthan.

This inheritance which she received from her family was carried

by her successfully in the state assembly.

On 1st May 1960, a separate Maharashtra state came

into existance. Before that, as a member of Maharashtra

Akikaran Samiti, she was one of the leading activists for the

creation of Sayunkta Maharashtra with the inclusion Bombay

in it. Another important factor to be noted that after studying

the debates of Assembly, one can easily notice that she was

very sincere and punctual in her attendence. As she was a

member of opposition party she never spared any opportunity

to attack and criticise the congress party whenever she thought

that there was some sort of justice.

It is unfortunate that she served only one term of five

years as a legislator. It is probably due to internal political

turmoil in her own party i.e. ‘Shetkari Kamgar party’, that she

decided to take political retirement. The second reason could

be that her children had settled down in America and she 61 wanted to be with them for the rest of her life. Recently she

has written her autobiography in two volumes under the title

of ‘Chintan”. However being very old (age 92) some of the

incidents that she has written appear to be inconsistent and

confusing. But, I have referred mostly the debates (1957 to

1962) of assembly, the validity of which is questionable and

hence form the guideline for the chapter in this dissertation. 62

References :

1) Dr. (Smt.) Jadhav B. M. : Dr. Appasaheb Pawar. Life

and work (Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis, Shivaji University,

Kolhapur (1998).

2) Ibid

3) Bagal Vimlabai “Chintan’, Kolhapur, 1994, An

Autobiography, p. 2-3.

4) Bagal Madhavrao. Mazza Pariwar, 1980. p. 7-8.

5) Karveer Kranti Swatatrya Sainic Gaurao Grantha. 20 Aug.

1972. p. 10-11.

6) Bagal Vimlabai “Chintan”. p. 4-5.

7) Ibid.

8) Bagal Vimlabai : OP. Cit. p. 10.

9) Ibid p. 11.

10) Daily Pudhari, Kolhapur, 2 March, 1949. Issue - 252.

11) Bagal Vimlabai OP Cit. p. 36.

12) Ibid.

13) Daily Pudhari Dec. 16, 1956. issue 294 year. 18.

14) Report in the second general election in India 1957. Vol.

II published by election commission India, p. 324.

15) ‘MARATH’, P. K. Atre, March 1957, issue 106.

16) Ibid. 63

17) Debates Bombay legislative assembly, 26 June 1957.

p. 91-93. Vol.-Ill

18) Ibid.

19) Debates Bombay legislative assembly 30 Sept. 1958.

Vol. 5.1.2

20) Debates Bombay legislative assembly Judicial enquiry.

27 June 1957. Vol-IH

21) Debates General discussion of Budget, 5 July 1957.

Bombay legislative assembly, p. 705 Vol.-Ill.

22) Debates of Bombay legislative assembly, p. 1293-94.

Vol.-Ill.

23) Debates - B.L.A. Primary Education Amendment Bill,

p. 1655-56. Vol.-5.2.2. 28 March 1958.

24) Ibid.

25) Debates Bombay legislative assembly. 16 December, 1957.

p. 741-745. Vol.-Ill.

26) Debayes B.L.A. 18 Dec. 1957. p. 945. Vol.-Ill

27) Debates B.L.A. 3 Dec. 1954.

28) Debates B.L.A. 1958, P. 17645. Vol. 5.2.2.

29) Debate B.L.A. local work 10 April 1958. p. 1722-23. Vol.

5.2.2

30) Debates B.L.A. 25 April 1958. p. 2272. Vol. 5.1.2 64

31) Debates : B.L.A. (29 Sept. 1958). p. 1524. Vol. 5.1.2.

32) Ibid p. 1525. Vol. 5.1.2.

33) Debates Bombay legislative assembly. 14 Oct. 1958. p.

1751-52. Vol. 5.1.2.

34) Debates of Bombay legislative assembly (24 Oct. 1958).

p. 2306. Vol. 5.1.2. Chapter - III Shrimati Sarojinitai Khanjire of Kolhapur District

.JUliUk