2008 - Shaheed Bhagat Singh | Commemorative Coin
The 2nd commemorative coin for the year 2008 was released on occasion of Birth Centenary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
Bhagat Singh, born on 28 September 1907, is revered as a prominent Indian freedom fighter and a key figure in the Indian independence movement. Often remembered as Shaheed Bhagat Singh, he emerged as one of the most influential revolutionaries of his time.
Actively involved in various revolutionary organizations, Bhagat Singh ascended the ranks of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and played a pivotal role in transforming it into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
In 1928, the British government's decision to form the Simon Commission, lacking Indian representation, triggered widespread protests across the country. Bhagat Singh witnessed the non-violent march led by Lala Lajpat Rai against the Simon Commission in Lahore. The police responded with brutality, leading to Lala Lajpat Rai's fatal injuries. Vowing revenge, Bhagat Singh and fellow revolutionaries planned to target the police chief, James A. Scott, but a case of mistaken identity resulted in the shooting of J.P. Saunders.
To evade capture, Bhagat Singh altered his appearance by shaving his beard and cutting his hair, violating Sikh tenets. Subsequently, the British government enacted the Defence of India Act to empower the police against revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh.
In response, the HSRA, under Bhagat Singh's influence, planned to bomb the Central Legislative Assembly. However, after a change of plan, Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt executed the bombing on 8 April 1929, intentionally causing no injuries. They were arrested and sentenced to 'Transportation for Life' on 12 June 1929.
Subsequently, the Lahore police discovered the 'Lahore Bomb Factory,' leading to the arrest of other HSRA members. Seven turned informants, connecting Bhagat Singh to the murder of J.P. Saunders. Opting to use the court as a platform to publicize his cause for India's independence, Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, faced murder charges.
On 23 March 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were hanged in Lahore. Their sacrifice and commitment to the cause led to widespread protests, with supporters immediately declaring Bhagat Singh a shaheed or martyr. His legacy endures as an inspiring symbol of courage and dedication to the fight for India's freedom.
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