Historic Change in Jaunsar Bawar: Dalit Community Elects Its Own Syna for the First Time

Dehradun, Uttarakhand: In a landmark development in Jaunsar Bawar, the centuries-old tradition of selecting a single village head, or Syna, has been broken. For the first time, the Dalit community of Bijnu Bijnad village has elected its own separate Syna, who was ceremoniously paraded on a wooden elephant during the post-Badi Diwali celebrations.

Breaking Centuries-Old Tradition

Traditionally, villages in Jaunsar Bawar had only one Syna, typically chosen from affluent families. This system, established during the British era, also played a role in assisting revenue collection. However, this year, 35 Dalit families took a historic step by electing their own Syna, Sunil Kumar, marking a significant move towards social equality.

The selection ceremony included placing the newly elected Syna on a wooden elephant and parading him through the village—a symbolic gesture signifying leadership and community respect. The process required support from the local police and administration to ensure security.

Dual Syna System Introduced

Now, the village has two Synas:

• One elected by 13 traditional families
• One chosen by 35 Dalit families

This new system allows the Dalit community to maintain their own leadership while preserving the cultural and social traditions associated with the Syna. The Syna is not just a ceremonial figure; he holds authority over village affairs, cultural events, dispute resolution, and social practices.

Administrative Support

Before inaugurating this new tradition, village representatives met with the District Magistrate to request security. The SDM and BDO from Chakrata were authorized, and the entire ceremony was carried out under police supervision.

Cultural Significance

The move signifies not only a break from colonial-era practices but also a step towards inclusive social leadership. It empowers communities historically excluded from traditional village leadership and strengthens the democratic ethos in local governance.

In short: For the first time in Jaunsar Bawar, Dalit families have claimed their rightful place in village leadership, setting a precedent for equity, tradition, and social justice in Uttarakhand’s hill communities.