New Delhi, Apr 13: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday paid tribute to the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, describing them as immortal freedom fighters whose sacrifice awakened a new consciousness and strengthened the resolve for India’s independence.
She also expressed gratitude for their enduring contribution to the nation, saying their patriotism continues to inspire generations.
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place on April 13, 1919, remains one of the darkest chapters in India’s colonial history. According to the Ministry of Culture, the incident marked a turning point in the freedom struggle and is remembered as a symbol of courage and resistance.
In a post on X, President Murmu wrote, “I pay my humble tribute to all the immortal freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in Jallianwala Bagh. This incident instilled a new consciousness and firm resolve for freedom among the countrymen. The nation will always remain grateful to them. I am confident that their spirit of patriotism will continue to inspire everyone to move forward on the path of national service with dedication and loyalty.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the victims, saying their sacrifice stands as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of India’s people and continues to inspire generations to uphold the values of liberty, justice and dignity.
“On this day, we pay our heartfelt homage to the brave martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. Their sacrifice stands as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of our people. The courage and determination they displayed continue to inspire generations to uphold the values of liberty, justice and dignity,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid homage, saying the massacre shook the conscience of the nation and united India in its freedom struggle.
He said the brutal firing on unarmed civilians strengthened the resolve to end colonial rule and deepened the sense of national pride and unity.
“On this day, April 13, 1919, I offer my salutations to the immortal martyrs who laid down their lives in Jallianwala Bagh for the freedom of the country. The brutal firing on unarmed civilians by the colonial regime shook the soul of India, uniting the nation and inspiring a decisive struggle for independence,” he wrote on X.
He added that the martyrdom at Jallianwala Bagh ignited the flame of freedom and strengthened the resolve to break the chains of colonial rule.
The massacre took place in Amritsar, Punjab, where thousands had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh during Baisakhi. The gathering was also a peaceful protest against the Rowlatt Act and a demand for the release of leaders Dr Satyapal and Dr Saifuddin Kitchlew.
British officer Brigadier General Reginald Dyer ordered his troops to fire on the unarmed crowd without warning. According to the Ministry of Culture, 1,650 rounds were fired, and the firing stopped only when ammunition ran out. While official British records put the death toll at 291, Indian leaders, including Madan Mohan Malviya, estimated over 500 deaths.
The Ministry of Culture also noted that Brigadier General Dyer showed no remorse for his actions following the incident. (Agency)
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