Balasore: Many officers of the British Raj have left behind their indelible mark in the history of India because of their contribution to social welfare and development. One such officer, who still lives in the memories of the people of Balasore, was Sir Henery Rickett, the first collector of the district.
Balasore was earlier a part of Cuttack district, but it got bifurcated in 1827 when Rickett took over as collector and remained in office till 1836. Apart from administrative obligations, the officer also looked after law and order.
“Whenever there was a natural calamity, Rickett himself rode out on his horse to visit the spot without sending his subordinates,” said researcher Biswanath Rana.
In 1831, a devastating flood wreaked havoc in Balasore, causing huge loss of lives and properties. Rickett conducted relief and rescue operations so well that his work was commended in England. During the Orissa Famine of 1866, the officer had sent `500 as relief for the district.
Besides, land settlement was carried out in the district during his stint in 1931.
The officer’s contribution towards agriculture is still praised by the farming community. He had got a canal dug out to connect rivers Mantei and Gomas. The canal is still remembered as Rickett nullah.
Not only that, the British officer had also got a road built along the coast for salt farmers so as to facilitate salt transport. The road is known Salt Road.
Moreover, Rickett’s contribution towards promotion of Oriya language in official level was also remarkable. In 1836, all official communication was done in Persian, but Rickett annulled the use of Persian and ordered the use of Oriya and English in courts and officials proceedings.
Significantly, he was upset with the oppressive policies of Bengali landlords in Orissa and had several times drawn the attention of the British government towards this issue.
Rickett’s wife Jane, a gynaecology expert, added to his popularity by serving people at households.
Jane passed away in 1832 prematurely and Rickett buried her body at Barabati here, his official residence.
The officer was transferred from Balasore in 1836 and appointed commissioner of Orissa in 1856.
The outbreak of the Sepoy mutiny had shook the very roots of the East India Company in the country. Rickett had to go back to England, where he was honoured with the title of Sir by the Queen.
His love for Balasore was evident from his last wish which was to be buried in Barabati. When he passed away in 1866 in Europe, the British government, honoring his last wish, had shipped his mortal remains to India. His body was buried at Barabati. The epitaph on the gravestone reads: “He neither forgot Balasore nor Oriya”
Ironically, the burial place of the British collector, who loved Balasore and Orissa, is now replete with wild creepers and bushes. Locals say the district administration has forgotten to take care of the burial place of such a loving administrator. PNN