A century plus five: Revisiting horrific Jalianwala Bagh massacre on Memorial Day

Historic Background

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, Punjab, during the British colonial rule in India. The massacre took place at Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden, where a large crowd had gathered to participate in a peaceful protest against the arrest and deportation of two national leaders, Satyapal and Saifuddin Kitchlew, and to demand the release of political prisoners.

Firing on Unarmed Civilians

Acting on the orders of Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer, British Indian Army troops, including Gurkha and Baluchi soldiers, opened fire on the unarmed and unsuspecting crowd without warning. The troops blocked the only exit of the garden, preventing people from fleeing the gunfire.

Casualties

The indiscriminate firing continued for about 10 to 15 minutes, resulting in a horrific loss of life. Official figures state that around 379 people were killed, including men, women, and children, while over a thousand were injured. However, the actual numbers may be much higher as many bodies were thrown into the nearby well or removed by grieving relatives.

Public Outrage

The massacre sparked widespread outrage and condemnation across India and around the world. It became a symbol of British brutality and oppression in India, leading to intensified demands for independence.

British Response

Despite international condemnation, the British government initially defended Dyers actions. However, the massacre eventually led to the end of Dyers military career, and he was relieved of his command. The British government, under pressure, ordered an inquiry into the incident, known as the Hunter Commission.

Legacy and Impact

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre left a lasting impact on Indias struggle for independence. It fueled nationalist sentiments and strengthened the resolve of freedom fighters to overthrow British rule. The incident also highlighted the need for nonviolent resistance, as advocated by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.

Memorial and Remembrance

Today, Jallianwala Bagh serves as a memorial to the victims of the massacre. The site, located in the heart of Amritsar, has been preserved as a historical monument, and an eternal flame burns in memory of those who lost their lives. The massacre is commemorated annually in India on April 13 as a day of remembrance and reflection on the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence.