Context:
Every year, March 23 is observed as Shaheed Diwas (Martyr’s Day) in India, a solemn occasion that commemorates the sacrifices of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru.
More on the news:
- Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar and Shivaram Rajguru were executed by the British in 1931 for their involvement in the murder of British police officer John Saunders.
- This day honours their martyrdom and reflects on their significant contributions to India’s freedom struggle.
Key Points about Bhagat Singh:
- Born on September 28, 1907, in Banga (now in Pakistan), Bhagat Singh became one of the most iconic freedom fighters of India.
- At the young age of 23, he was executed, yet his life continues to inspire patriots and revolutionaries in India and beyond.
- His early exposure to revolutionary activities led him to be part of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), where he was involved in various acts of defiance against British colonial rule.
- Bhagat Singh was not only known for his revolutionary acts but also for his intellectual contributions.
- He was a prolific writer and often used pseudonyms like Balwant, Ranjit, and Vidhrohi in his writings.
Bhagat Singh’s Ideals and Philosophy
- Bhagat Singh’s legacy goes beyond his involvement in revolutionary activities. His writings, speeches, and personal philosophy shaped his image as a thinker as well as a fighter.
- He was heavily influenced by Marx, Lenin, and other revolutionary figures but also disagreed with several orthodox positions of Marxism, especially those related to authoritarianism.
- One of the most impactful quotes by Bhagat Singh was: “Mere faith and blind faith is dangerous: It dulls the brain and makes a man reactionary.” This quote encapsulates his scepticism towards blind belief, be it religious or political.
- Bhagat Singh argued that critical thinking, rationality, and scientific temper were crucial for social progress.
The Lahore Conspiracy Case and Trial:
- Bhagat Singh’s path to martyrdom is closely tied to the Lahore Conspiracy Case. On December 17, 1928, Singh and his associates, including Shivaram Rajguru, assassinated John P. Saunders, a British police officer, in Lahore.
- The act was carried out as part of a mistaken identity. The original target was James A. Scott, a senior British officer who had ordered the lathi charge that led to the death of Lala Lajpat Rai during a protest against the Simon Commission.
- Following the murder, Bhagat Singh and his companions were arrested and put on trial in connection with the Lahore Conspiracy Case.
- Despite the lack of clear evidence against them, Bhagat Singh, along with Sukhdev Thapar and Rajguru, was sentenced to death by hanging on October 7, 1930.
- The British executed the three revolutionaries on March 23, 1931, despite widespread protests.
- The martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev became a defining moment in India’s fight for independence.
Relevance of Bhagat Singh in Contemporary Times:
- Bhagat Singh’s philosophy resonates with the values upheld by India’s Constitution, such as secularism, social justice, and rationalism.
- His stance on atheism and scientific thinking challenges the widespread influence of religion in politics and governance, making his ideas relevant in today’s context, especially with regard to discussions about secularism and scientific temper in Indian society.