KARNAIL SINGH ISRU
1. Context
- As India commemorates its 77th Independence Day, the Punjab Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, pays homage to the late activist Karnail Singh Isru, a valiant participant in the Goa Liberation Movement.
- On this day in 1955, Isru lost his life while advocating for Goa's accession to India during the movement. Every year, the Punjab government organizes events to honour Isru's memory.
2. About Karnail Singh Isru
- Karnail Singh Isru was born on September 9, 1930, in Chak 30 village of the Lyallpur district, which is presently in Pakistan.
- Orphaned at seven, he was raised by his mother Harnam Kaur. Immersed in the freedom movement, Isru was profoundly inspired by Punjab's active role in the struggle against colonial rule.
- His dedication to the cause led him to adopt the name 'Isru' from the village he resided in, which later became synonymous with his legacy.
- After pursuing education, he became a school teacher in a Ludhiana village.
Image Source: Facebook3. The Goa Liberation Movement and Isru's Involvement
- The Goa Liberation Movement was a determined effort to liberate Goa from Portuguese colonial rule.
- Isru's involvement in this struggle was fueled by his admiration for nationalist leaders such as Tristao de Braganca Cunha and Ram Manohar Lohia.
- In 1955, CPI organized the dispatch of Satyagarhis to Goa to hoist the Indian tricolour on Independence Day.
- Isru, among the group of Satyagarhis, embarked on this mission with unwavering resolve.
- Isru's fervour for the freedom movement intensified during his tenure as a student leader, where he advocated for issues such as fee hikes.
- He drew inspiration from renowned freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh and Chandra Shekhar Azad, along with their ideals of truth and non-violence.
- In the early 1950s, he joined the Communist Party of India (CPI) and actively engaged in the fight against Portuguese colonial rule in Goa, Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, which remained unaffected by India's independence.
4. Tragic Demise and Legacy
- Tragedy struck when Isru, along with the Satyagarhis, entered Patradevi village in North Goa.
- Portuguese forces opened fire on them, leading to Isru sustaining a fatal chest injury.
- At the young age of 25, Isru's life was cut short while fighting for the liberation of Goa.
- His sacrifice became a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of oppression.
- Eventually, India's position on Goa hardened, and in 1961, 'Operation Vijay' successfully led to Goa's annexation, culminating in its liberation.
5. Conclusion
- Karnail Singh Isru's remarkable contribution to the Goa Liberation Movement remains etched in history as an emblem of courage and determination.
- His sacrifice continues to inspire generations and exemplifies the unwavering commitment of countless unsung heroes who played an instrumental role in shaping India's destiny.
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For Prelims: Karnail Singh Isru, Goa Liberation Movement, Operation Vijay,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the life and contributions of Karnail Singh Isru in the context of the Goa Liberation Movement. How did his early experiences and upbringing influence his involvement in the freedom struggle? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following events: (UPSC 2018)
1. The first democratically elected communist party government formed in a State in India.
2. India's then-largest bank, 'Imperial Bank of India', was renamed 'State Bank of India'.
3. Air India was nationalised and became the national carries.
4. Goa became a part of independent India.
Which of the following is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?
A. 4 - 1 - 2 - 3 B. 3 - 2 - 1 - 4 C. 4 - 2 - 1 - 3 D. 3 - 1 - 2 - 4
Answer: B
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Source: The Indian Express
