Batukeshwar Dutt, also known as B. K. Dutta, was a remarkable Indian socialist revolutionary who dedicated his life to the cause of India’s independence. Born on 18th November 1910 in Khandaghosh village, West Bengal, he became an integral part of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and formed strong bonds with fellow freedom fighters like Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh.
The Central Legislative Assembly Bombing:
Dutt’s most memorable and courageous act came on 8th April 1929 when he and Bhagat Singh threw two bombs inside the Central Legislative Assembly in New Delhi. The bomb explosion was intended to protest against the Trade Disputes and the Public Safety Bill being presented in the Assembly and to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai.
Arrest, Trial, and Imprisonment:
Following the bombing, Dutt, along with Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev Thapar, was arrested and tried in the Central Assembly Bomb Case. He was sentenced to life imprisonment under Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act. Deported to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, he endured years of confinement, remaining steadfast in his commitment to India’s freedom struggle.
The Hunger Strike and Advocating for Political Prisoners:
Even in imprisonment, Dutt’s resolve remained unshaken. Together with Bhagat Singh, he initiated a historic hunger strike protesting against the ill-treatment of Indian political prisoners. Their determined action led to securing certain rights and better treatment for the incarcerated freedom fighters.
Post-Independence Life and Struggles:
After India gained independence, Dutt’s life took a different turn. Struggling with tuberculosis and poverty, he actively participated in the Quit India Movement of Mahatma Gandhi, which led to another stint in jail. Despite his immense contributions to India’s freedom struggle, independent India failed to acknowledge his sacrifices, and he lived a life of obscurity, away from the political limelight.
Legacy and Recognition:
Batukeshwar Dutt’s legacy lives on through the B. K. Dutt Colony in New Delhi, a residential colony named in his honor. His story of courage and determination was documented in Anil Verma’s book titled “Batukeshwar Dutt: Bhagat Singh ke Sahyogi,” released on the centenary of Dutt’s birth.
In popular culture, Bhaswar Chatterjee portrayed Dutt’s character in the movie “The Legend of Bhagat Singh,” bringing his inspiring tale to a wider audience.
Conclusion:
Batukeshwar Dutt’s unwavering commitment to India’s freedom struggle remains an inspiration to generations. From the Central Legislative Assembly bombing to his role in securing better conditions for political prisoners, Dutt’s contributions were significant. Despite facing hardships and poverty after independence, his legacy lives on, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless unsung heroes in the fight for India’s independence.
