Jatindra Nath Das (27 October 1904 – 13 September 1929), often referred to as Jatin Das, was an Indian independence activist and revolutionary. He is primarily remembered for his self-sacrifice through a hunger strike in Lahore Central Jail, demanding better conditions for Indian political prisoners. His death on the 63rd day of his fast deeply moved the nation and significantly fueled the Indian independence movement.
Early Life and Education Jatin Das was born on 27 October 1904, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bengal Presidency, British India, to Bankim Behari Das and Suhasini Devi. From an early age, he was drawn to the nationalist cause. He studied at the Bangabasi College in Calcutta. His political activism began during his student days, and he was arrested for the first time in 1921 for participating in the Non-cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Despite his early involvement, he later became disillusioned with the non-violent approach and gravitated towards revolutionary ideals.
Revolutionary Activities Das became an active member of the revolutionary movement in Bengal. He was associated with prominent revolutionaries like Sachin Sanyal and was known for his expertise in bomb-making. In 1925, he was imprisoned for revolutionary activities and spent seven months in Mymensingh Central Jail, where he learned firsthand about the poor conditions faced by political prisoners. Upon his release, he joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a revolutionary organization that aimed to overthrow British rule through armed struggle. He worked closely with leaders such as Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev Thapar, training them in bomb manufacturing and other revolutionary tactics. Despite his involvement in revolutionary activities, Das was also known for his strong moral convictions and dedication to the welfare of political prisoners.
Arrest and Hunger Strike In June 1929, Jatindra Nath Das was arrested in Calcutta for his alleged involvement in the Lahore Conspiracy Case, which involved the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly by Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt, and the subsequent murder of police officer J.P. Saunders. He was subsequently transferred to Lahore Central Jail to face trial alongside other revolutionaries.
Upon his arrival, Das and other political prisoners, including Bhagat Singh, initiated a hunger strike on July 13, 1929. Their primary demands included:
- Recognition as political prisoners, distinct from ordinary criminals.
- Better living conditions, including improved food, sanitation, and access to books and newspapers.
- The right to wear traditional Indian clothes.
- Facilities for preparing their own food.
The British authorities were unwilling to concede to these demands, viewing the hunger strike as an act of defiance. They responded with force-feeding, which Das resisted fiercely. Despite the intense pain and physical deterioration, he remained resolute in his protest. The prolonged hunger strike took a severe toll on his health.
Death and Impact Jatindra Nath Das succumbed to his ordeal on September 13, 1929, after fasting for 63 days. His death sent shockwaves across India and generated immense public outrage against British rule. His body was transported by train from Lahore to Calcutta, and along the route, millions gathered to pay their last respects. His funeral procession in Calcutta was one of the largest in Indian history, stretching for miles and witnessing an unprecedented outpouring of public grief and anger against the colonial administration. Leaders from across the political spectrum, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose, hailed his sacrifice as a pivotal moment in the freedom struggle.
His martyrdom galvanized the youth and intensified the demand for complete swaraj (self-rule). It brought the plight of political prisoners into national focus and put immense pressure on the British government. Although the immediate demands of the hunger strikers were not fully met, Das's sacrifice highlighted the oppressive nature of colonial rule and significantly contributed to the momentum of the independence movement.
Legacy Jatindra Nath Das is remembered as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the cause of Indian independence. His extreme sacrifice for the dignity and rights of political prisoners cemented his place as a national hero. His story continues to inspire generations with its testament to selflessness in the face of tyranny. Numerous memorials, institutions, and streets across India are named in his honor, ensuring his legacy as a martyr for the nation's freedom.