Category Archives: Martyrs of the Nation

Muslims: The first architects of India

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INDIA:

Mughal Art and Architecture

We, The Indian Muslims are proud to be citizens of this great country. We have been an architect of this land all through centuries since the days of dynastic rule. Whether it was construction of world class network of transport facilities like Grand Trunk Road linking major cities, founding new cities of highest standards for that age, huge monumental structures to attract the world, development of living standards and maintain cordial relationships between groups belonging to various religions, languages, castes and cultures, we pioneered justice and maintained the system.

With the passage of years, decades and turn of events, the foreign forces got attracted to it and slowly took over the rein of rule.

We were first to challenge and fight for country’s independence valiantly. Even our clergymen took to streets and fought, thousands laid down their lives. Colonel Balwan Singh Nagial, a third-generation Indian Army officer who retired in 2019 wrote in Times of India (April 23, 2022), thus: “Muslim leadership contributed enormously to divergent phases of the  Indian struggle for independence. They (Muslims) played a larger-than-life role and made significant sacrifices in this struggle for independence.

From the last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah Zafar to nawabs, princes, landlords of all sizes, clergy, ulema and the ordinary people, they all stood for the cause and took on enormous challenges and made supreme sacrifices.

When the INC was formed in 1885, the Muslims responded enthusiastically and supported all its efforts throughout the freedom struggle until India became free. The most enthusiastic support for the INC was from the Muslims of the conservative Ulama of Deoband. Earlier, the Ulama had participated in the 1857 uprising with heart and soul.

They made great sacrifices, and hundreds of them were sent to Andaman-Nicobar and many to Malta, an island to the south of Italy.

Muslim leaders who contributed to India’s struggle for independence were:

Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Maulana Muhammad Ali, Maulana Shaukat Ali, Allama Iqbal, Muhammad Barkathulla, Bi Amma (mother of Ali brothers), Badarudeen Tyabji, Hakim Ajmal Khan, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Dr M.A. Ansari, Dr Siafudeen Kichlu, Dr Basheer Ahmad, Syed Ameer Ali, Dr Syed Muhammad, Hasrat Mohani, Nawab Abdul Latheef, Altaf Hussain Hali, Syed Ahmad Sirhindi, Syed Ahmad Bareilly, Maulana Shibli Numani, Munshi Karamat Ali, Munshi Zakaullah.

Hindus and Muslims together fought the foreign forces shoulder to shoulder. A report by the ‘Milli Chronicle’ says that names of 95,300 freedom fighters are etched on the India Gate in Delhi, and remarkably, 61,945 of these names belong to Muslims, signifying that 65% of these brave individuals were Muslims. The significance of this statistic is eloquently captured by the renowned writer Mr. Kushwant Singh, who boldly declared that the story of Indian freedom is etched in the blood of Muslims, emphasizing their large contribution to the freedom struggle, considering their dis-proportionately smaller population percentage.

The annals of history are adorned with the stories of Muslim freedom fighters who put their lives on the line to liberate India from the shackles of British oppression. These individuals, driven by an unwavering determination to secure their homeland’s independence, demonstrated exceptional courage and resilience.

All through ages we find tall personalities like Sultan Haidar Ali, father of Tipu Sultan, (he pioneered the fight against British colonial forces); Tipu Sultan, son of Haider Ali; (he pioneered the use of iron-cased rockets); Ashfaqullah Khan,(noted for his daring attacks on British government trains); Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, the youngest President of the Indian National Congress,(who rallied Hindus and Muslims alike against British oppression); Maulana Hasrat Mohani, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, (a pivotal figure in the Khilafat movement); was jailed for 13 years by the British),  Sirajud Daula, (the last Nawab of Bengal), Badruddin Tyabji (of Indian National Congress); his wife, Suraiya Tayabji, who designed the present Indian flag., Zain-ul-Abideen, an officer of the Indian National Army (INA), coined the iconic patriotic slogan “Jai Hind.”

While recounting the names of every Muslim freedom fighter may be an impossible feat, their contributions and sacrifices in the fight against British colonialism are immeasurable and undeniable. The fact that many chose to remain in India underscores their deep-rooted connection to the land. Despite attempts to distort history, India will forever be the cherished home of its Muslim citizens. We gave the independent India Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education Minister, Dr. Rafi Ahmed Qidwai, Dr.Zakir Hussain (an Educationist and Vice President), and numerous figures as servants to the country in the form of politicians, officers, industrialists, entrepreneurs, researchers, technocrats etc. in every field.

Our very recent contribution to the nation’s public service has been the world famous Scientist/Technocrat and President Dr.A.P.J. Kalam. He set the highest, un-believable standard of honesty, transparency and clean image in public life. A glimpse into the life he spent in the Rashtrapati Bhavan as President gives a shocking information. The same is as under: Mr. P M Nair, (retired IAS officer, then Secretary to Dr. Abdul Kalam, the President writes in his book “Kalam Effect” that Dr. Kalam used to receive costly gifts whenever he went abroad (as it is part of custom & protocol) used to ask the gifts to be photographed and then catalogued and handed over to the archives. Afterwards, he never even looked at them. He did not take even a pencil from the gifts received when he left Rashtrapathi Bhavan. It was a regular practice for every President to host an Iftar party, a routine. Upon being reminded about it Dr. Kalam asked Mr. Nair why he should host a party to people who are already well fed. Instead he estimated and donated Rs.22 lac being the cost to a few selected orphanages in the form of food, dresses and blankets besides a cheque for Rs.1.lakh from his personal funds. Though himself a devout Muslim, he never organized Iftar parties in President’s house at Public expense. Once Dr. Kalam invited 50 of his relatives to come to Delhi and they all stayed in Rashtrapathi Bhavan. He organized a bus for them to go around the city which was paid for by him.

No official car was used. Their lodging and food bill which came to Rs.2 laks was paid by him as per his instructions. Dr. Kalam’s elder brother stayed with him in his room for the entire one week as Dr Kalam wanted his brother to stay with him. When they left, Dr. Kalam wanted to pay rent for that room also. Imagine the President of a country paying rent for the room in which he is staying. This was any way not agreed to by the staff who thought the honesty was getting too much to handle. When he was to leave Rashtrapathi Bhavan at the end of his tenure, every staff member went and met him and paid their respects. Mr. Nair went to him alone as his wife couldn’t as she was confined to bed due to fracture. Upon noticing her absence and knowing the reason Dr. Kalam visited his house and chatted with her for some time. The following property was left behind by Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam: 16 doctorates, 1 website, 1 twitter account, 1 email id, 2500 books, 1 Padmashri, 1 Padmabhushan, 1 Bharat Ratna, 1 flat (which he has donated), 6 pants & 4 shirts (DRDO uniforms), 3 suits (1 western, 2 Indian). He didn’t have any Car, jewelry, stocks, TV, AC, land or any bank balance. He had even donated the last 8 years’ pension towards the development of his village. He was a real patriot and true Indian Muslim. We are proud of him.

Our character building efforts continued even through the present 21st century in the country with unique results as records vouch. For example, the city of KAYALAPATTANAM (in Tamil Nadu) with 100% Muslim population goes. There is no Police Station, no cinema and no crime in the city because there had been no crime there for decades.

The present day situation in the country may appear to be disheartening and disappointing for some. The irresponsible attitude towards Muslims by some extremist groups in the country belonging to a certain ideology should be viewed as a momentary period. Their efforts to demoralize, degrade, deny civil rights are synonymous with their declared intentions. A great majority of country-men still believe and practice true Hinduism as had been for centuries in the past. True Hindus do not endorse hatred, support arson and distrust.

A long history of peaceful co-existence of Muslims and Hindus for centuries with mutual respect, rejoicing specially the occasion of festivals and long socio-economic ties in every nook and corner of the country is its evidence.

Our country has been an example of ‘Unity in diversity’ for the world for a long time. Nobody from either community can imagine a survival without another. The bond has been and will surely be strong as Steel. The ever increasing social evils like Corruption, nepotism, frauds, woman-bashing and vandalism like termites in the country have made the life of common man miserable.

Decline in the values like increased greediness, and wide spread of dishonesty, revenge, vindictiveness, and non-adherence to law need to be challenged and controlled. The ‘PLEDGE’ we used to read in our text books once in first page is long missing both from the book and in practice.

We the Indian Muslims, whether a common man, clergy, intellectual, and technocrat, worker or even those with any political group should realize that notwithstanding the company or area, we have a responsibility towards the country and duty-bound to work for our own community. We need to understand todays challenging scenario and strengthen its unity. We are the inheritors of a great legacy, and not followers of the ilk of this day. We Muslims should remember that we are ordained by the Almighty Allah to be united, behold his Commands; make efforts to spread virtuous deed and work eradicate evils. The entire country is looking forward for the honest.

As the phrase rightly goes, ‘Service to humanity is service to God’. Our population in the country according to 2011 census stands at about 200 million which constitutes 15%. We need to contain our extravagant life-style especially in matters of functions and festivals.

We should stop depending on politicians, their promises and focus on a self, collective effort. We need to move forward together in the fields of education, employment opportunities generating plans through mutual cooperation. For this purpose and as in the days of our Prophet, we should make our area Masjid a center for gathering, deliberation, planning, guidance and service as per law.Experts and experienced in relevant fields can be roped in for the purpose and the available resources can be put to work.

سبق پڑھ پھر صداقت کا، شجاعت کا، عدالت کا۔۔
لیا جائیگا تجھ سے کام، دنیا کی امامت کا۔۔

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim / by Syed Ilyas Basha / October 03rd, 2023

On this day in 1857, Maulvi Muhammad Baqir was shot dead by Major Hudson

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, ,

DELHI :

Maulvi Baqir was among the first to be arrested when the British Army entered Delhi on September 14, 1857.

On this day in 1857, Maulvi Muhammad Baqir was shot dead by Major Hudson

Maulvi Muhammad Baqir was Editor, Founder and Owner of “Delhi Urdu Akhbar“. He was shot dead on September 16, 1857 for writing articles in Nationalist tone. Maulvi Muhammad Baqir was the first journalist to lay his life during the Independence Movement of India and the Freedom Struggle of India.

Maulvi Baqir, his name sometimes also spelled as Maulvi Maqar, started the first Urdu newspaper of Delhi, Delhi Urdu Akhbar, in 1835 – a year after the British government amended the “Press Act” and allowed publications.

“Delhi Urdu Akhbar” survived for nearly 21 years, proving to be a milestone in the field of Urdu Journalism. With the help of this newspaper, Maulvi Muhammad Baqar played key role in highlighting social issues as well as bringing political awakening in public and uniting them against foreign rulers.

When the Indian revolutionaries started the first war of national independence in 1857, he dedicated his newspaper to the national cause. Soon after the revolt or mutiny broke out in Meerut on May 10, 1857, Baqir gave his newspaper a new name “Akhbar uz Zafar” (Paper of Zafar) to pay tribute to Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar who was leading the mutinying sepoys and the revolt against the British.

A staunch supporter of Hindu Muslim unity, Journalist Maulvi Baqir on June 04, 1857, printed articles in his newspaper appealing to both the communities to unite and come together, “Don’t miss this opportunity, if missed, no one will come to help, this is a good opportunity for you to get rid of British rule”.

Mohammad Baqir was used to publish his newspaper on Sundays, instead of Saturdays as a mark of his own rebellion and protest against the British, who observed Sabbath – a day of religious observance and abstinence from work, kept by Jewish people from Friday evening to Saturday evening, and by most Christians on Sunday.

Suppression of the Indian Revolt by the English

Baqir was among the first to be arrested when the British Army entered Delhi on September 14, 1857. Two days later, on September 16, he was produced before Major William S.R. Hudson who ordered to shoot him dead without trial. Major Hudson shot dead Maulvi Baqir on the same day, making him the first Indian Journalist to lay his life for the country.

It is said Maulvi Baqir was tied to the mouth of a cannon which is then fired by Major William Hudson. Some historians however have disputed this claim. Nonetheless his contributions and sacrifice were later immortalised in Russian artist Vasily Vereshchagin ‘Suppression of the Indian Revolt by the English’ painting portraying the woes of freedom fighters and the brutal way Maluvi Baqar was claimed to have been executed.

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Life & Style / by Ummid.com News Network / September 16th, 2023

In India, 1,000 Tipu Sultan-era ancient rockets to be showcased in museum

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Freedom Fighters (under research project), Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, Museums, Libraries (wef. April 16th, 2022), Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), World Opinion

KARNATAKA:

India rocket musuem
These were the first iron-cased rockets used in the military thus paving the way for rockets use around the world. (Supplied)

More than 1,000 unused rockets of India’s freedom fighter Tipu Sultan’s era found toward the end of July this year, will now be showcased at a newly created rocket gallery at the museum at Shivappa Nayaka Palace in Shivamogga city in the state of Karnataka.

The gallery, named as Bidanur Rocket Gallery after the famous Bidanur Fort at Nagar in Hosanagar taluk of Shivamogga district, will open to receive visitors in October.

Visitors will be able to feast on the rockets used by Tipu Sultan, the illustrious son of Karnataka, who was known as “Tiger of Mysore” for his daring acts against the British who ruled India then.

India rocket musuem
India rocket musuem

Bidanur served as an important administrative centre of Mysore State (renamed as Karnataka) and Tipu Sultan had even established a mint and an armory here.

Speaking to Al Arabiya English, R. Shejeshwara, Assistant Director of the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, said that the findings were discovered during a field excavation at a farmer’s well in Nagara village in Hosnagar Taluk, Shivamogga district, conducted by Department of Archeology, Museums and Heritage.

He said, “the shape of a cylinder and having a fuse at one end reveal that these rockets were used during the eighteenth century AD during Tipu’s time. Each unused rocket is of 7 to 10 inches in length and 1 to 3 meter in diameter and are rusted because of continuous exposure to soil moisture”.

India rocket musuem
India rocket musuem

Shejeshwara further said that like the earlier rockets found in 2002, those recovered recently also are iron-cased with black powder, a mixture of sulfur, charcoal and potassium nitrate filled inside. The 15-member crew of archaeologists, excavators and laborers took three days to unearth the armory and the ammunition.

Shejeshwara said that after the fourth Anglo-Mysore War, it is likely that Tipu’s army, stationed in Nagara, could have dumped the rockets in the well to prevent them from getting into the hands of the East India Company.

The media spotlight on the recent findings speaks volumes about how this powerful 18th century ruler of Mysore is remembered. Mysore under Tipu stood as a bulwark against the British.

Tipu conceptualized, designed and manufactured cylindrical iron tubes that ensured for great compression of the filled gunpowder and consequently, greater range (nearly 2 km). The brave freedom fighter then fastened them to swords or bamboo poles to provide stability, that would, in turn, lead to better accuracy.

Fitted with sharpnels that traveled a considerable distance, these air-borne weapons would target the enemy with edges of the sharpnels facing them.

India rocket musuem
India rocket musuem

These were the first iron-cased rockets used in the military thus paving the way for rockets use around the world.

The first rocket, which was fired by Tipu Sultan in 1792 against the British forces, is displayed at the British Museum. Though the British lost the war, they have exhibited the rocket.

After being the victims of these innovative locally-crafted rockets, the British eventually adopted the technology. Tipu Sultan wrote a military manual called Fathul Mujahideen in which he explains that 200 rocket men were assigned to each Mysorean cushoon (brigade).

Little wonder then the credit for developing the first-ever iron-clad rockets goes to Tipu Sultan and they were successfully deployed for military use.

In the Battle of Pollilur (the Second Anglo-Mysore War in 1780), Tipu’s rockets set afire the East India Company’s ammunition dumps. It was the British Army’s one of the worst ever defeats in India.

India rocket musuem
India rocket musuem

It may be recalled that a set of 24 rare and rediscovered preparatory paintings depicting the Battle of Pollilur was sold to a bidder for £769,250 at the Sotheby’s biannual Arts of the Islamic World Sale in 2010. The Britishers described these rockets filled with gunpowder on swords as “flying plagues”.

Tipu took advantage of them and established four taramandalpets (star-cluster bazaars, a name that refers to the pattern of mid-air explosions of these rockets that then pounded shrapnel on the enemy) at Srirangapatna, Bidanur, Chitradurga, and Bangalore to conduct research on Mysore rocket technology.

The armory in Kalasipalyam in Bangalore was among the four that were constructed by Tipu Sultan to store ammunition. The 18th century armory that housed the famed rockets of Tipu Sultan is hardly known.

After the death of Tipu in 1799, the British Army discovered as many as 600 launchers, 700 serviceable rockets and 9,000 empty rockets at Tipu’s fort.

One of the major beneficiary was the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich in the UK. The powerful ruler was killed in the fourth Anglo-Mysore war in 1799 after a slew of victories in battle against the British.

http://www.english.alarabiya.net / AlArabiya News / Home> Life > Travel & Tourism / by Aftab Alam Kola / August 09th, 2018

Sabhi ka khoon hai shamil yaha ki mitti me: Muslim Freedom Fighters of India

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA:

Uncover the remarkable contributions of Muslim freedom Fighters of India to fight for freedom from British colonial rule.

In present times, Indian Muslims find themselves subjected to demonization and unwarranted questioning of their patriotism. Communal elements seek to manipulate history by intentionally excluding Muslims and disseminating false propaganda against them through social media. The vital contributions and sacrifices made by Indian Muslims in the struggle for India’s freedom from British colonial rule are systematically obscured. However, a closer examination of history reveals that not only did Indian Muslims play an essential role in the freedom movement, but they also made significant sacrifices for the cause of anti-colonial nationalism.

Indian Muslims: Unveiling Their Crucial Role

According to a report by the Milli Chronicle, the names of 95,300 freedom fighters are etched on the India Gate in Delhi, and remarkably, 61,945 of these names belong to Muslims, signifying that 65% of these brave individuals were Muslims. The significance of this statistic is eloquently captured by the renowned writer Mr. Kushwant Singh, who boldly states that the story of Indian freedom is etched in the blood of Muslims, emphasizing their disproportionately larger contribution to the struggle, considering their smaller population percentage.

Profiles of Courage: Muslim Freedom Fighters

The annals of history are adorned with the stories of Muslim freedom fighters who put their lives on the line to liberate India from the shackles of British oppression. These individuals, driven by an unwavering determination to secure their homeland’s independence, demonstrated exceptional courage and resilience.

Sultan Haidar Ali Salabat Jung: The First Freedom Fighter


   Sultan Haidar Ali, father of Tipu Sultan, pioneered the fight against British colonial forces. A secular leader, he united both Hindus and Muslims in his quest for freedom, although his efforts were eventually betrayed.

Tipu Sultan: A Trailblazer in Battle


   Son of India’s first freedom fighter Haider Ali, Tipu Sultan pioneered the use of iron-cased rockets, utilizing them effectively to defeat British forces in several historic battles over two decades.

Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan: A Martyr’s Legacy


   Member of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), Ashfaqullah Khan paid the ultimate price for India’s freedom. Notable for his daring attacks on British government trains, his sacrifice remains etched in history.

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: A Beacon of Unity


   Maulana Azad, a key leader in the anti-colonial nationalist movement, became the youngest President of the Indian National Congress. He rallied Hindus and Muslims alike against British oppression and launched Urdu Weekly Al-Hilal to expose British misrule.

Maulana Hasrat Mohani: Champion of Change

Mohani’s powerful Urdu speeches incited Indians to stand up against British rule. His unyielding spirit saw him arrested and jailed, but his impact on India’s fight for freedom remained profound.

Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan: The Frontier Gandhi


   A pivotal figure in the Khilafat movement, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan established the Khudai Khitmatgars, promoting peace and unity. Jailed for 13 years by the British, his dedication was unwavering.

Sirajud Daula: Battling Against Betrayal


   The last Nawab of Bengal, Sirajud Daula, fought valiantly against British forces. Despite betrayal, he remained a symbol of resistance against British rule.

Vakkom Majeed: Courage Amidst Oppression


   Vakkom Majeed’s resilience during the Quit India movement earned him repeated jail terms, highlighting his unwavering commitment to India’s freedom.

Fazl-e-Huq Khairabadi: Life in Exile


   Sentenced to life in the notorious Kalapani jail on Andaman, Fazl-e-Huq Khairabadi continued his fight for freedom despite insurmountable odds.

Badruddin Tayabji: Founding the INC


    Badruddin Tyabji and Qamruddin Tyabji were instrumental in establishing the Indian National Congress (INC). Badruddin’s wife, Suraiya Tayabji, designed the present Indian flag.

Shah Nawaz Khan: A Triumphant Act


    Major of Azad Hind Force, Shah Nawaz Khan was the first to hoist the tricolor at the Red Fort, symbolizing India’s victorious struggle against British imperialism.

Barrister Saifuddin Kitchlew: A Voice for Justice


    Jailed for 14 years by the British for protesting against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Rowlatt Acts, Kitchlew’s opposition to the two-nation theory set him apart.

Bakht Khan: A Gallant Defender


    Bakht Khan’s courageous defense against the British in Delhi, Bengal, and Lucknow showcased his unwavering dedication to India’s freedom.

Titu Mir: Bengali Rebel


    Titu Mir’s armed resistance against British colonial authorities exemplified his determination to free India from British rule.

Syed Ahmad Barelvi: Organizing Resistance


    Syed Ahmad Barelvi’s efforts in uniting native armies against the British from Delhi to Kabul showcased his strategic prowess.

Zain-ul-Abideen: INA Officer’s Patriotic Slogan


    Zain-ul-Abideen, an officer of the Indian National Army (INA), coined the iconic patriotic slogan “Jai Hind.”

Empowering Women in the Freedom Struggle

The fight for India’s freedom was not limited to men; several Muslim women also contributed significantly to the struggle.

Begum Hazrat Mahal: A Rebel Leader


   Rebelling against the British in 1857, Begum Hazrat Mahal seized control of Lucknow from British forces, showcasing her leadership and courage.

Surayya Tyabji: Designing India’s Flag


   Wife of freedom fighter Badruddin Tayyabji, Surayya Tyabji designed the Indian flag that we proudly hoist today.

Abadi Bano Begum: A Pioneer in Politics


   Abadi Bano Begum, known as Bi Amma, actively participated in politics, matching her male counterparts in the Indian National Movement. Her sons went on to become prominent leaders.

Azizan: A Warrior’s Spirit


   Azizan organized a battalion of warrior women, displaying her remarkable skill in the art of war and refusing to yield to British pressure.

A Timeless Legacy

The contributions and sacrifices of Indian Muslims in the fight against British colonialism are immeasurable. While recounting the names of every Muslim freedom fighter may be an impossible feat, their collective impact remains undeniable. The fact that many chose to remain in India underscores their deep-rooted connection to the land. Despite attempts to distort history, India will forever be the cherished home of its Muslim citizens.

Conclusion

Urdu poet Rahat Indori’s words,

“Sabhi ka khoon hai shamil yaha ki mitti me,

Kisi ke baap ka Hindustaan thodi hai,”

encapsulate the essence of Muslim Freedom Fighters of India’ unyielding commitment to their homeland. The sacrifices and contributions of Indian Muslims in the struggle for independence stand as a testament to their unwavering dedication and indomitable spirit. Their stories deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated, inspiring future generations to honor the diverse tapestry of individuals who fought for a free and united India.

source: http://www.munsifdaily.com / The Munsif Daily / Home> News> Indai> Pan India / by Munsif Web Desk / August 18th, 2023

Son of former DIG, the Dy. Suptd. of Police (DSP) of J&K Police Humayun Bhat a cop who died in Anantnag terror attack ‘always led from the front’

Amazing Feats, Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , ,

Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR:

Officials familiar with the operation said that the terrain in the particular area is difficult and “militants fired from a height upon the approaching party”.

Kashmir gunfight
Family members mourn the death of DSP of J&K Police Humayun Bhat , who was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Anantnag district, during his funeral at his residence in Srinagar on Wednesday.(PTI Photo)

As friends and relatives crowded through the gates of Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat’s house, distraught family members could barely say a word through their sobs. The 2018 batch J&K Police officer, who wished to carry forward the tradition of the uniform in the family, was killed along with two officers of the Indian Army as their search party was hit by a volley of terrorist gunfire in the Gadool forest in Anantnag.

Bhat’s father, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, served in the J&K Police until his retirement as DIG Central Kashmir in 2018.

An officer who spent his probation year with him described him as an eager and humble officer. “He was always eager to learn, a friend to all his colleagues. He always led his team and yesterday too he did the same,” said the officer.

Officials familiar with the operation said that the terrain in the particular area is difficult and “militants fired from a height upon the approaching party”.

Another officer who served with Bhat at Srinagar said, “He was an exceptional police officer. I remember when he joined the team, I was greatly impressed by his interest in learning practical policing. He was a dedicated team member, always ready to contribute.”

He said that Bhat was the proud son of a retired police officer and “found great joy in carrying on his father’s legacy by wearing the khaki”. “Gone too soon, his absence leaves a void that words can’t express, and our hearts ache with the loss of such a promising officer,” the officer said.

Bhat studied at Srinagar’s Burn Hall School and trained as an engineer at SSM college of engineering in North Kashmir. The family, originally from Pulwama, had been living in Srinagar for many years. He is survived by his parents, a brother, his wife and a son, who is just over a month old.

After joining the force in 2018, Bhat was posted at Srinagar, then at Pattan in North Kashmir, and he was on his third posting, as Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) at Kokernag, Anantnag.

A senior officer he worked with in the early days of his career described him as brave and compassionate. “His father is one of the most outstanding professionals, a man of principle, and Humayun had those same values. He was passionate about the uniform and never brought his father’s rank into his own professional dealings.” He added that his loss at a time when things are relatively calmer in the Valley “makes this immensely difficult to reconcile with”.

A family friend described Bhat as an “extraordinary officer” and added that he was courageous, conscientious and down to earth. “Similar to his father, his qualities of head and heart endeared him to everyone who came in contact with him. His martyrdom is an irreparable loss to all of us who knew him and his father.”

source: http://www.indianexpress.com / The Indian Express / Home> News> India / by Naveed Iqbal, Srinagar (headline edited) / September 14th, 2023

Titu Mir: West Bengal’s Tipu Sultan

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Freedom Fighters (under research project), Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , ,

Hyderpur Village (Narkelbara Paragnas) , WEST BENGAL:

The Wahabi movement enjoyed a special status when it comes to revolts against the British rule in India, and Titu Mir, whose real name was Syed Mir Nisar Ali, added a militancy to it. It became the source of inspiration for several movements in the Struggle for Independence of India.

Titu Mir was born in a peasant family in 1782 at Hyderpur village, in the Narkelbaria paragana of West Bengal. Syed Mir Hasan Ali, Abida Roqayya Khatun were his parents. He was a renowned wrestler during his younger age and was engaged in several petty jobs. Syed Mir Nisar Ali went on a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1822 and met the founder of the Wahabi movement, Syed Ahmed Barelwi and the founder of the Farazi movement, Haji Shariatullah. The meeting of the three leaders had strengthened the ‘Wahabi[1]Farazi’ movements.

After his return from Mecca, he settled in Hyderpur. He travelled extensively and saw the atrocities of the officials of the East India Company, Zamindars and Mahajans. Syed Mir Nisar Ali witnessed the woes of the people who suffered in the clutches of these exploiters. Titu decided to put an end to the exploitation and undertook a campaign to arouse the people for a rebellion against the foreign rulers along with his spiritual campaign. He started armed struggle against the British Police and East India Company armed forces, who were supporting Zamindars and Mahajans. Zamindars and their men were collecting taxes for wearing beards and harassed Muslims.

Opposing the oppressive taxes levied by the Company rulers and inhuman activities of local Zamindars, Titu Mir himself personally led several revolts. Titu Mir was irked by atrocities and attacks on the common people by Zamindars, Mahazans and British force. Syed Mir Nisar Ali was so courageous that he was even informing the East India Company officials and police about his attacks in advance. His courageous approach attracted the poor towards him.

Thousands of people, irrespective of religious and class barriers, followed him in his rebellion and fought for him against the police and British forces. Titu Mir built a bamboo fort in Narkelbaria where he trained his followers in armed struggle and frightened the Company rulers for about a decade. The British commanders attacked the fort of Syed Mir Nisar Ali (Titu Mir) on 19 November, 1831 at Narkelbaria, where he succumbed to injuries in 1832 .

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Featured News / by Nihad Amin / August 28th, 2020

Assam cop Moinul Haque declared martyr 32 years after he died fighting militants

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Garemari (Barpeta District), ASSAM:

Martyr Police Officer Moinul Haque and the martyr's altar erected in Barpeta (from left)
Martyr Police Officer Moinul Haque and the martyr’s altar erected in Barpeta (from left)

Three decades after Police officer Moinul Haque made supreme sacrifice while fighting insurgents in Barpeta city of Assam, the government has declared him a martyr.

The move has sent a wave of joy and pride in his native village of of Garemari in the Barpeta district and the local panchayat has installed a memorial in his honour in the local school.

Sub-Inspector Moinul Haque of the Assam Police was shot dead on January 21, 1991 while he was on duty at the District Special Branch of the Police in Barpeta.

The 102nd Kumalliapara Gaon Panchayat recently erected a plaque in Moinul Haque’s memory at the local college in his native village on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the country’s independence.

The scene at the inauguration of the martyr’s altar in memory of Moinul Haque

Born in 1948 in Garemari village, Moinul Haque was a skilled and brave police officer and a socially conscious person. He was the founder of the Garemari Primary Health Centre, Babur Ali Molla ME Madrassa and other institutions in the Garemari area. 

Soon after his schooling he was appointed in the Assam Police.

The local people, various organizations and his family members have expressed their gratitude to the government for honouring him after 32 years. 

“We are pleased that the government has declared Moinul Haque, who sacrificed his life for the sake of the motherland, as a martyr,” said Bulbul Hussain, the government village chief of Garemari village.

He said the supreme sacrifice of the police officer to protect the dignity of Mother Assam will remain an example for the younger generation of Garemari area.

The 102nd Kumullipara Gaon Panchayat President Ruma Parbin Sultana Khanam said she was happy and proud to erect a martyr’s altar in the name of heroic martyr Moinul Haque during the Amrit mahotsav, the celebration of 75 years of India’s freedom

“My father, Shaheed Moinul Haque, was shot dead by militants on January 21, 1991 while on duty in the Assam Police. After 32 years, albeit late,” said Ismail Hussain, son of martyred police officer said.

“The government has declared him a martyr. I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Government of Assam and the Government of India for that. I also wish the souls of all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the motherland.”

The event was attended by the Acting Principal of the college Sirajul Haque, Assistant Inspector of Silk Department Hurmuz Ali, family members of martyred police officer Moinul Haque, officials of various local institutions and local people.

source: http://www.awaazthevoice.in / Awaaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Saiju Rahman, Bapeta / September 11th, 2023

Madhya Pradesh: Union minister Prahlad Patel pays tribute to BSF Jawan Aqeel Khan

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , ,

Damoh District, MADHYA PRADESH:

Khan, a resident of Damoh district, was deployed for security of Amarnath pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir.

article-image
Bhopal: Union minister Prahlad Patel and others pay tributes to Aqeel Khan, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan on Tuesday | FP Pics
BSF Jawan's body at Bhopal airport
BSF Jawan’s body at Bhopal airport |

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh):

Union minister Prahlad Patel and others paid tributes to Aqeel Khan, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan, after his body was brought to Raja Bhoj Airport on Tuesday. His funeral will be performed in Damoh.

Khan, a resident of Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh, was deployed for the security of Amarnath pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir.

As soon as the family of Aqeel living in Futera ward of Damoh got the news of his death, there was mourning in the family. Aqeel Khan was recruited in BSF since 2008. He is survived by a daughter, son and mother. With the news of Aqeel’s death pouring in, the district administration is in touch with the BSF.

According to family members, Aqeel, who dreamt of joining the army since childhood, had joined the BSF in 2008. With this his dream was fulfilled. Aqeel bid farewell to his mother Shakeela Begum and had left with great joy pledging to serve the country. His family was very happy with this. Aqeel is survived by his wife Shazia Khan, an 8-year-old daughter, a 3-year-old son, mother and two brothers and a sister.

source: http://www.freepressjournal.in / The Free Press Journal / Home> Bhopal / the FPJ Staff Reporter / May 24th, 2022

Renowned researcher, author Dr. Shamsul Islam, to deliver BV Kakkilaya Inspired Oration 2023

Amazing Feats, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Events, Exhibitions, Conferences (wef. Nov 18th, 2021), First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, , , ,

NEW DELHI:

Mangaluru:

Renowned researcher, author, and former Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Delhi, Dr. Shamsul Islam, is scheduled to deliver the BV Kakkilaya Inspired Oration for 2023. The oration, titled “Joint Martyrdoms, Joint Heritage of 1857 War of Independence,” will take place on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Ravindra Kalabhavana, University College, Mangaluru.

The annual BV Kakkilaya Inspired Orations serve as a tribute to the life and contributions of Sri BV Kakkilaya (1919-2012). Kakkilaya was a freedom fighter, a leader in the Karnataka unification movement, a prominent figure in the Communist Party of India and All India Trade Union Congress, a member of the first Rajya Sabha, and the Karnataka State Assembly.

He was also an award-winning writer and thinker. The oration aims to promote alternative thoughts and approaches to address the challenges faced by the underprivileged masses in India. The event is organized by Hosatu Monthly, Bangalore, MS Krishnan Trust, Bangalore, and Samadarshi Vedike, Mangalore, in collaboration with the Department of History, University College, Mangaluru.

During the event, Dr. Shamsul Islam’s book, “The Untold Amazing Stories of 1857,” will be released in its Kannada translation, titled “Bharatada Modala Swatantrya Sangrama 1857 – Helade Ulida Adbhuta Kathegalu.” The book is translated by Dr. B.R. Manjunath and published by Navakarnataka Publications. Dr. Jayaraj Amin, Vice Chancellor of Mangalore University, will have the honor of unveiling the translated work.

Additionally, the event will feature the publication of the names of 128 martyrs from Karnataka, who hailed from diverse backgrounds including various castes, religions, sects, and socio-economic strata. These martyrs gave their lives during the 1857-58 anti-British revolts. Dr. Shamsul Islam compiled this list from national archives, and the occasion will be marked with tributes to these brave individuals.

The public is warmly welcomed to attend this significant event.

source: http://www.varthabharati.in/ Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / September 09th, 2023

A 1857 martyr’s skull taken as a ‘war trophy’ to Ireland waits to be buried in India

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Martyrs of the Nation, World Opinion, , , , , , ,

Kanpur, UTTAR PRADESH / BRITISH INDIA:

Prof Kim A Wagner and his book
Prof Kim A Wagner and his book

The skull of a martyr Sepoy Alam Baig of the first war of Indian independence in 1985 must be brought to India for burial at the site where he was blown into pieces with a cannon for rebelling against the British Army in 1857.

This campaign is being run by British Professor Kim A. Wagner, who teaches Global and Imperial History at Queen Mary University of London and is also the author of the book The Skull of Alum Bheg: The Life and Death of a Rebel of 1857.

Prof Kin Wagner is an authority on the subject as he has published several books like ‘Thuggee: Banditry and the British in Early Nineteenth-Century India’, ‘The Great Fear of 1957: Rumours, Conspiracies and the Making of the Indian Uprising’, and ‘Amritsar 1919: An Empire of Fear and the Making of a Massacre’.

Wagner says this grisly war trophy was found in a  pub in south-east England in 1963. The owner handed it over to him in 2014 and he published this book on Alum Bheg in 2017.

Wagner says the skull was brought to Ireland by someone from the British authorities and later changed hands.

“The handwritten note found with it revealed the skull to be that of Alum Bheg, an Indian soldier in British service who had been blown from a cannon for his role in the 1857 Uprising. His head had been brought back as a grisly war trophy by an Irish officer present at his execution,” writes Kim Wagner.

Prof. S. Sehrwat of the Department of Anthropology, Punjab University had said in a statement that during the revolution of 1857, Havaldar Alam Baig (the way it is spelled in India) was captured and blown up with cannon. His skull was found in England.

He said Wenger had told him about this.

The note found with Alam Baig’s skull

A complete search record of the skull has been found. The scientists are now keen to do a DNA test to ensure the identity of the skull. It is known that Alam Baig was from the Kanpur area of Uttar Pradesh and even a family has claimed him to be their ancestor.

According to Prof Dineshwar Chaubey, who teaches genetics at BHU, Varanasi, two types of tests can be done on Alam Baig’s skull. A Kanpur family living in Delhi has claimed to be related to Alam Baig. Their genes can be matched with it.

Kim Wagner and other historians are campaigning for givinh a due burial to at some place along the India-Pakistan border, where he was done to death.

Wagner says the British had accused Baig of killing a Christian priest family and it was a fabricated charge. The record says that he was a sepoy of the 46th regiment of the Bengal Native Infantry.

Kim Wagner believes that it is the right time to bury Havaldar Alam Baig in his country, at the same spot where he fought in the Battle of Trimu Ghat on the banks of the Ravi River in the border region between India and Pakistan.

He said, “I do not consider the return of Alam Baig’s skull as political. My aim is only to bring the mortal remains of Alam Baig to his homeland so that he may rest in peace long after his death.

Although the historian’s statement has also passed a long time, there is no progress in this matter to date. It is also waiting for the time when the skull of one of the great sons of India will be brought to India and buried in the soil here.”

The Natural History Museum confirmed its likely authenticity and Wagner, with little evidence to go on, traced Bheg’s history using various sources.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home > Story by ATV / by Ghaus Siwani, New Delhi / posted by Aasha Khosa / September 02nd, 2023