The INA Trials, also called the Red Fort Trials, were held by the British to prosecute officers of the Indian National Army (INA) after the Second World War. Instead of weakening nationalism, the trials became a powerful rallying point for India’s freedom movement.
Background
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After Japan’s defeat in 1945, thousands of INA soldiers were captured by the British.
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The British decided to try the INA leaders for treason, waging war against the King, and murder.
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The first set of trials was conducted at the Red Fort, Delhi, which gave them the name Red Fort Trials.
Key Figures in the First Trial (November 1945 – May 1946)
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Shah Nawaz Khan (Muslim)
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Prem Kumar Sahgal (Hindu)
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Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon (Sikh)
This diverse representation of religion showed the secular and united nature of INA.
Defense and Public Support
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A strong legal defense team, including Bhulabhai Desai, Tej Bahadur Sapru, Asaf Ali, and Jawaharlal Nehru, represented the accused.
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Across India, there were mass demonstrations, strikes, and protests in support of INA heroes.
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The slogan “Lal Qile se aayi awaaz, Sahgal, Dhillon, Shah Nawaz” echoed across the country.
British Reaction and Verdict
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All three were found guilty and sentenced to transportation for life.
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Due to enormous public pressure and fear of unrest in the army, the sentences were commuted and the officers were released in 1946.
Impact of the INA Trials
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Sparked a wave of national unity, cutting across religion, caste, and region.
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Strengthened the image of Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA as symbols of patriotic sacrifice.
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Triggered unrest in the Royal Indian Navy Mutiny (1946) and disaffection in the army and air force.
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Convinced the British that loyalty of Indian armed forces could no longer be guaranteed, hastening their decision to quit India.
Key Takeaway
The INA Trials (1945–46) turned into a political victory for Indian nationalism. Instead of discrediting the INA, the trials immortalized them as heroes, intensified anti-British sentiment, and played a decisive role in the final phase of India’s struggle for independence.