Unveiling the Untold Valor: Over 68% of Gallant Revolutionaries in Cellular Prison Hailed from Undivided Bengal

In a recent parliamentary session, Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament Ritabrata Banerjee raised a poignant question regarding the Andaman Cellular Jail, a historical site deeply tied to India’s struggle for independence. He inquired about the absence of busts commemorating Ulaskar Dutta and Barin Ghosh, two prominent Bengali revolutionaries, within the prison complex. Responding to his query, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism confirmed that there are currently no busts of these revolutionaries at the site, and no proposals for them are under consideration at this time.

The discussion shed light on the significant role Bengali revolutionaries played between 1909 and 1938, during which over 68% of the prisoners at the Cellular Jail were from undivided Bengal. According to statistics provided by the Ministry, out of the 585 revolutionaries detained during this period, a striking 398 hailed from Bengal. In comparison, Punjab was the second-largest contributor, with 95 revolutionaries imprisoned. This information was formally presented to the Parliament on February 13, 2025.

Furthermore, Mr. Banerjee questioned why the Andaman Cellular Jail has not been declared a national monument, despite its historical importance. The Ministry clarified that the prison is not protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958. They also stated that there are no current plans to designate it as a national monument. This revelation was part of the government’s response to an earlier query by the MP dated March 13, 2025.

MP Ritabrata Banerjee expressed his disappointment regarding the government’s stance, emphasizing that “every brick and cell in Andaman Cellular Jail is inscribed with stories of bravery of Bengali freedom fighters, yet the government hasn’t declared it a national monument.” He further highlighted the torture experienced by Ulaskar Dutta in the prison, including electric shocks administered through batteries sent from Kolkata. He also recounted Barin Ghosh’s daring escape from the jail, underscoring their significant sacrifices.

Mr. Banerjee’s sentiments resonate with the broader public sentiment, considering the Andaman Cellular Jail is revered as a pilgrimage site by many Indians. He criticized the seeming lack of recognition and respect for Bengal’s contribution to the freedom movement. “If the busts of Ulaskar Dutta and Barin Ghosh were not there, then what should be at Cellular Jail? Through these questions, it is clear what is the attitude of the Union government towards Bengal and revolutionaries of Bengal,” he remarked.

These discussions have sparked a renewed interest in the historical and cultural significance of the Andaman Cellular Jail, prompting calls for its preservation and commemoration. The response from the Ministry underscores the ongoing debate about how India chooses to honor its complex and diverse history. As the dialogue continues, there is a growing expectation for the government to acknowledge the contributions of all revolutionaries and consider steps towards recognizing the site’s national importance.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/over-68-revolutionaries-lodged-in-cellular-prison-were-from-undivided-bengal/article69381883.ece
Category : West Bengal
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-03-28 06:00:00