The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, also called the Amritsar Massacre, was one of the most tragic events in India’s freedom struggle. It exposed the brutality of British colonial rule and became a turning point that galvanized nationalist sentiment across the country.
Background
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Passed in March 1919, the Rowlatt Act allowed detention without trial, provoking widespread anger.
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Protests and hartals were organized across India, with Punjab becoming a center of resistance.
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On April 13, 1919, people gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab, to peacefully protest against the arrest of nationalist leaders Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr. Satyapal.
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The gathering included men, women, and children, unaware of any ban on assembly.
The Massacre
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Brigadier General Reginald Dyer arrived with troops and ordered them to fire on the crowd without warning.
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The narrow enclosure of Jallianwala Bagh trapped people, leaving them with no escape.
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Troops fired 1,650 rounds of bullets, killing around 1,000 people and injuring more than 1,500.
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Dyer claimed the act was to “teach a lesson” and prevent further rebellion.
Immediate Consequences
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Outrage and shock spread across India and abroad.
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Gandhi described it as “the saddest episode in the history of British rule in India.”
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Widespread hartals, protests, and condemnations followed in Punjab and other provinces.
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The Hunter Commission set up by the British largely exonerated Dyer, further angering Indians.
Impact on Indian Freedom Struggle
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Destroyed faith in British justice and reforms like Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms.
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Led to non-cooperation with the British and the rise of mass movements under Gandhi.
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Strengthened Gandhian leadership, uniting people from all communities against colonial oppression.
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Inspired political leaders to demand complete independence rather than mere reforms.
Key Takeaway
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of 1919 was a watershed moment in India’s struggle for freedom. The brutal killings transformed nationalist politics, ignited mass anger, and marked the beginning of the Gandhian Era of Mass Struggle, making Indians realize that non-violent resistance and unity were essential to overthrow British rule.