Why in the News?

The nation remembers Lala Lajpat Rai, known as Punjab Kesari, on his 96th death anniversary. He succumbed to head injuries after being baton-charged by British police during a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission. A tribute ceremony was held in his native village Dhudikey, Moga, attended by Punjab Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and others.

About Lala Lajpat Rai

• Early Life and Education
  • Born on 28^th January 1865 in Dhudike, Punjab.
  • Studied law at Government College, Lahore.
  • Influenced by Arya Samaj, leading to his involvement in social and political issues.
• Role in India's Independence Movement
  • Known as Punjab Kesari (Lion of Punjab).
  • Prominent leader in the Indian National Congress (INC).
  • Member of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, alongside Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.
• Social Reforms and Advocacy
  • Focused on the upliftment of Indian society, education, and fighting caste discrimination.
  • Promoted Swaraj (self-rule) and social reforms.
• Leadership in the Nationalist Movement
  • Played a key role in the Swadeshi Movement, promoting Indian goods and boycotting British products.
  • Actively opposed the 1905 Partition of Bengal, which aimed to divide Indian unity.
  • Supported the Home Rule Movement, advocating for greater autonomy within the British Empire.
• Political Career
  • Founded the Indian Home Rule League of America in 1917.
  • Elected deputy leader of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1926.
  • Served as the INC President in 1920, marking a transition period for the party.
• Leadership in Protests and Agitation
  • Led protests against the Simon Commission in 1928, sustaining fatal injuries from a baton charge by British police.
  • Initially opposed Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement but later supported it, advocating for its continuation even after the Chauri-Chaura incident.
• Legacy and Contribution
  • Known for his journalistic work and writings that galvanized the public against British rule.
  • His leadership and contributions in social reform and the freedom movement cemented his status as a prominent nationalist figure.
• Death and Remembrance
  • Died in 1928 due to injuries sustained from British police brutality.
  • Remembered as a martyr and hero of India's freedom struggle.