With 78 years having passed since its independence, India joyfully commemorates the triumphs that have defined its journey to freedom. Many movements have been documented in the annals of history that contributed to the attainment of independence from British rule. The struggle of Munshiganj farmers in Raebareli district of Uttar Pradesh is a prime example of the same. Infact, Munshiganj, is known for the farmers’ movement and the massacre perpetrated by the colonial power.
The Jallianwala Bagh incident of 1919 stands as a grim episode during the freedom struggle and a similar instance was recorded in Munshiganj. 104 years ago, Imperial Police fired upon over 2,000 unarmed farmers in this area. A memorial has been erected to honor their memory, reminding us of the severe atrocities and inhumanity committed by the British. Many experts even believe that it surpassed the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy in scale.
Image via Dainik Bhaskar
The fateful occurrence took place on 7th Jauary 1921 and encapsulated a tale of sacrifice and renunciation, as farmers bravely resisted the oppressive and cruel actions of the British regime. The origins of this incident can be traced back to Bhagwantpur Chandniha hamlet, located within the Deenshah Gaura development block. Police, under the command of the oppressive government, shot hundreds of unarmed and innocent farmers. As a result, the waters of the Sai River ran red with the blood of the farmers, many of whom gave their lives and made the supreme sacrifice for the country.
