Understanding Resentment Against Migrant Groups in South Bihar

The question asks about the term used by locals in South Bihar to describe migrant traders and moneylenders against whom there is common resentment. This resentment often stems from perceived exploitation, land alienation, and economic dominance by these outsider groups.

Identifying the Term for Migrant Groups: Dikus

Historically, particularly in the tribal belt of the Chota Nagpur plateau, which includes parts of South Bihar, the term 'Diku' has been used by indigenous communities (Adivasis) to refer to outsiders. These 'Dikus' were typically non-tribal people, including traders, moneylenders, landlords, and administrators, who migrated into tribal areas. The resentment arose because these outsiders were often seen as exploiting the local population, taking over their land, and disrupting their traditional way of life through unfair practices.

Let's examine the given options:

• Nakarattars: This group is primarily associated with Tamil Nadu and is known for their trading and banking activities. This term is not used in the context of migrant groups causing resentment in South Bihar.
• Adivasis: This term means 'original inhabitants' and refers to indigenous or tribal people. The question describes migrant groups, not the local tribal population themselves. So, Adivasis are the ones who often used a term for the outsiders, they are not the term for the outsiders.
• Dikus: As discussed, this term has been historically used by tribal communities in the region for outsiders, particularly those who came as traders, moneylenders, and landlords and were perceived as exploiters. This fits the description perfectly.
• Oraons: This is the name of a specific tribal community found in the Chota Nagpur region (Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh). It is a name of a local group, not a term for migrant outsiders.

Based on the historical and social context of the region, the term 'Dikus' accurately describes the migrant traders and moneylenders against whom locals, particularly tribal communities, harbored resentment.

Therefore, the migrant groups against whom locals in South Bihar have resentment, particularly traders and moneylenders, are known as Dikus.

Revision Table: Key Terms

Additional Information: Historical Context of Dikus

The concept of 'Dikus' is deeply rooted in the history of tribal regions in India, especially the Chota Nagpur plateau. During the colonial period and even before, outsiders began migrating into these areas, attracted by resources like land, forests, and minerals. These outsiders often acquired land from the tribals through various means, including exploitation through moneylending, unfair trade practices, and imposing new land revenue systems. The tribals, who had communal ownership traditions and different economic systems, found it difficult to compete with or resist the economic power and legal frameworks introduced by the outsiders and the ruling powers.

The resentment against Dikus fueled numerous tribal uprisings and movements throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, such as the Santhal rebellion and the Munda rebellion led by Birsa Munda. These movements aimed to resist the encroachment of outsiders, reclaim land, and restore tribal autonomy. The term 'Diku' thus represents not just a migrant person but a symbol of exploitation, loss of land, and disruption of tribal life.