Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: 10 Lesser-Known Facts on 105th Anniversary
105th anniversary of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: A somber episode in Indian history – 10 lesser-known facts about the 1919 tragedy.
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, one of India’s darkest episodes during its colonial era, remains etched in the collective consciousness even after 105 years. On April 13, 1919, during the Baisakhi festival, a large peaceful assembly gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar to voice their opposition against the repressive Rowlatt Act.
Protest Against Rowlatt Act: The gathering at Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919, was primarily to protest against the Rowlatt Act, which allowed for indefinite detention without trial.
Enclosed Space: Jallianwala Bagh was a confined area with high walls, making it difficult for the crowd to disperse quickly during the massacre.
General Dyer's Orders: Brigadier General Reginald Dyer ordered his troops to fire on the unarmed crowd, resulting in hundreds of casualties.
Casualty Figures: While official reports mention around 400 deaths, it's believed that the actual number of casualties was much higher, with some estimates reaching over a thousand.
Dyer's Justification: Dyer justified his actions as a means to "produce a moral effect" and to "punish the Indians for disobedience."
Civilian Martial Law: Following the massacre, Dyer imposed martial law on the city of Amritsar, enforcing humiliating measures such as crawling on hands and knees for Indian residents.
Public Outcry: The massacre sparked widespread condemnation across India and the world, leading to calls for an end to British rule.
Knighted Despite Criticism: Despite criticism of his actions, Dyer was knighted by the British government, which further fueled outrage and protests.
Amritsar Massacre Inquiry Committee: The British government established the Hunter Commission to investigate the massacre, but its findings were criticized for being lenient towards Dyer.
Legacy of Trauma: The Jallianwala Bagh massacre left a lasting trauma on the Indian psyche and played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, galvanizing support for freedom from British colonial rule.
These lesser-known facts shed light on the magnitude of the tragedy and its enduring impact on the collective memory of India.
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