Bhagat Singh

 

Bhagat Singh (28 September 1907 – 23 March 1931) was one of the most influential Indian revolutionaries. He came from a Sikh family which had been involved in revolutionary activities against the Raj. 

While studying he was influenced by both anarchist and Marxist ideology and became involved in many revolutionary organizations. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and became one of its main leaders, eventually changing its name to the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928.

Seeking revenge for the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, an author and politician, remembered as a leader in the Indian fight for independence, at the hands of the police, he was involved in the assassination of a British police officer John Saunders. He managed to evade arrest and along with another freedom fighter was successful in a mission to throw two bombs and leaflets into the Central Legislative Assembly while shouting 'Inquilab Zindabad'.

Subsequently they volunteered to surrender and arrest. Held on this charge they widespread national support. He fasted for 116 days in jail, demanding equal rights for British and Indian political prisoners.

Sadly there was enough evidence against him for a conviction for the assassination and after a trial by a Special Tribunal and appeal at the Privy Council in England. He was convicted and subsequently hanged for his participation in the murder. He was 23 at the time and his example motivated the youth to begin fighting for India’s independence.