On the 100th anniversary of the Kakori Train Conspiracy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the freedom fighters who participated in this historic event, emphasizing the deep-seated resentment against colonial rule that fueled their actions. The Kakori Train Conspiracy, also known as the Kakori Train Action, took place on August 9, 1925, when members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) stopped the 8-Down train near Kakori, a village near Lucknow.
The revolutionaries, including Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Chandrashekhar Azad, Rajendra Lahiri, and Roshan Singh, seized government treasury funds to finance their struggle against British rule. This audacious act was not only about securing funds but also about sending a strong political message against British exploitation.
PM Modi, in a post on X, highlighted that the courage displayed by these patriotic Indians a century ago underscored the widespread anger against colonial rule, particularly the misuse of people's money to further colonial interests. He affirmed that their valor would always be remembered and that the nation would continue working to fulfill their dreams of a strong and prosperous India. Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed these sentiments, stating that the freedom fighters ignited a revolution against British looting by reclaiming the nation's wealth. He emphasized that their actions shook the foundations of the British Empire and that the nation would forever be indebted to their bravery and valor.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also commemorated the anniversary, paying heartfelt tributes to the revolutionaries. He emphasized that their saga of bravery serves as a beacon of inspiration and that their sacrifice, courage, and patriotism would forever inspire the spirit of "Nation First". Adityanath visited the Kakori Shaheed Memorial for the closing ceremony of the centenary event, underscoring the importance of remembering and honoring these freedom fighters.
The Kakori Train Action was a significant event in the Indian Independence Movement. The revolutionaries needed funds to acquire weaponry and continue their fight against British rule. The robbery was meticulously planned and executed, but it came at a heavy cost. The British government responded with a massive crackdown, arresting many participants and imposing severe punishments. Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, and Roshan Singh were among those who were tried and sentenced to death.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan participated in a 'Tiranga Rally' in Berhampur to honor the armed forces, connecting the spirit of the Kakori Train Action with the ongoing legacy of patriotism and sacrifice. The Uttar Pradesh government has been actively promoting the centenary of the Kakori Train incident, with various events and initiatives aimed at educating the masses about the sacrifices of these national heroes. U.P. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh announced a year-long celebration to run from August 9, 2024, to August 9, 2025, with the goal of introducing school children, youth, and the new generation to the lives and principles of these freedom fighters.
Descendants of the Kakori revolutionaries have also called for greater emphasis on the event in school textbooks, ensuring that future generations learn about their struggle and sacrifices. They suggest the Kakori Shaheed Mandir be developed as a tourist place, providing accurate information about the incident to visitors.
The 100th anniversary of the Kakori Train Conspiracy serves as a reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and vision of those who fought for India's independence. It highlights the resentment against colonial rule and the determination of the revolutionaries to reclaim what they believed was rightfully theirs. The tributes paid by PM Modi, CM Adityanath, and other leaders reflect the enduring importance of this event in India's history and its continued relevance in inspiring a strong and prosperous nation.
