Batukeshwar Dutt

Comrade Batukeshswar Dutt

Batukeshwar Dutt (18 November 1910 – 20 July 1965) was an Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter in the early 20th century. He is best known for his role in the Indian independence movement and his association with Bhagat Singh.

Early Life

Batukeshwar Dutt was born on 18 November 1910 in the village of Oari in the Bardhaman district of West Bengal. He was educated at the P.P.N. High School in Kanpur, where he met Bhagat Singh and became involved in revolutionary activities.

Revolutionary Activities

Dutt joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a revolutionary organization committed to the overthrow of British rule in India. He was deeply influenced by the ideology of the HSRA and worked closely with other prominent revolutionaries like Chandra Shekhar Azad and Sukhdev Thapar.

Central Legislative Assembly Bombing

On 8 April 1929, Batukeshwar Dutt, along with Bhagat Singh, threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against the repressive laws enacted by the British government. The bombs were intended to make a loud noise without causing any casualties. After the bombing, both Dutt and Singh courted arrest by shouting slogans of "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution) and throwing leaflets explaining their actions.

Trial and Imprisonment

Dutt and Singh were tried in the Delhi Conspiracy Case and were sentenced to life imprisonment. Dutt was sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he endured harsh conditions and participated in hunger strikes to protest against the treatment of political prisoners.

Later Life

After his release from prison in 1938, Dutt continued to be involved in the freedom struggle. He joined the Indian National Congress and participated in the Quit India Movement of 1942. However, his health deteriorated due to the years of imprisonment and the harsh conditions he had endured.

Death

Batukeshwar Dutt passed away on 20 July 1965 in Delhi after a prolonged illness. He was cremated with full state honors, and his legacy as a freedom fighter continues to be remembered in India.

Legacy

Batukeshwar Dutt's contributions to the Indian independence movement are commemorated in various ways. Several institutions and roads are named after him, and his life and actions continue to inspire future generations.

See Also

• Bhagat Singh
• Hindustan Socialist Republican Association
• Indian independence movement
• Chandra Shekhar Azad
• Sukhdev Thapar
• Central Legislative Assembly
• Delhi Conspiracy Case
• Cellular Jail
• Quit India Movement