On April 13th every year, India pauses to remember one of the darkest chapters in its history – the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. This solemn day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during the struggle for independence and the brutal repression faced by those who dared to defy colonial rule.

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre occurred on April 13, 1919, in the city of Amritsar, Punjab. On that fateful day, thousands of unarmed civilians, including men, women, and children, had gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden, to peacefully protest against the oppressive Rowlatt Act imposed by the British government. The peaceful assembly turned into a nightmare when British troops, under the command of General Reginald Dyer, opened fire on the crowd without warning or mercy.

The gunfire continued for about ten minutes, turning the peaceful gathering into a scene of chaos and horror. Bullets rained down on the unsuspecting crowd, leaving hundreds dead and thousands injured. The massacre shook the conscience of the nation and sparked outrage across the world, exposing the brutality of British colonial rule in India.

The aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre left a deep scar on the collective psyche of the Indian people. It galvanized the freedom movement and fueled the resolve of freedom fighters to strive for independence. The sacrifice of those who lost their lives that day became a symbol of resistance and resilience in the face of tyranny.

Today, as we observe Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Day, it is essential to reflect on the lessons of the past and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of freedom, democracy, and justice. It is a day to honour the memory of those who laid down their lives for the cause of freedom and to pay tribute to their unwavering courage and determination.

As we pay our respects to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh, let us also renew our pledge to uphold the values for which they fought and sacrificed. Let us strive to build a society where justice and equality prevail, where the rights and dignity of every individual are respected, and where the voices of the oppressed are heard and valued.

On this solemn day, let us remember the past, honour the sacrifice of the martyrs, and draw inspiration from their courage as we continue our journey towards a brighter and more just future for all.