Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Nearly two years after discontinuing the use of the controversial robot dog, the New York Police Department (NYPD) is bringing it back. China’s artificial sun broke all records as it generated extremely hot plasma for seven minutes on the night of April 12. The artificial sun project is based on nuclear fusion, giving China an unlimited energy source without generating residual waste.

Robotic dogs to make a comeback to NYPD; China's artificial sun sets new record

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, by his own account, is a 'proud British Hindu'. Sunak has expressly embraced his Indian and Hindu heritage. At the same time, Sunak's moment of reckoning as a person of darker skin tone residing and working in 10, Downing Street – a former powerhouse of colonialism – has been widely celebrated by the people of former British colonies, in the United Kingdom and elsewhere.&nbsp;

The UK Prime Minister also holds a unique cross-sectional attribute as British person of colour of 'double-migrant' heritage, whose ancestors came to Britain from imperial India via Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The exhibition and celebration of one's heritage, such as lighting diyas on Diwali or visiting temples, is an obvious attribute of cultural rootedness. But an absolute absence of addressal of some tough questions on the same heritage, such as 'Who caused the Jallianwala Bagh massacre?', reflects a perilous state of imperial ignorance in Sunak’s leadership.

That it were the British who committed the Jallianwala Bagh massacre from inception to nadir is a fact rather than a contested assertion. That an official count of dead, widely held false, from that bloodied Amritsar ground showed 379 Indians killed, is a fact at the face of brutish smugness of the Raj.

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;Britain refuses to apologise for Jallianwala Bagh massacre

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As my colleague Prisha details <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-happened-to-general-dyer-the-butcher-of-jallianwala-bagh-581900">here</a>, General Reginald Dyer, the British Army officer who ordered the massacre, had 'made up [his] mind that [he] would shoot all men to death if they were going to continue the meeting at Jallianwala Bagh', located a short walk away from holiest Sikh shrine of Golden Temple in Amritsar in North India.

If Sunak, as a person of colour in the Downing Street himself, cannot issue a clear and unequivocal apology for a British imperial crime as staggeringly monumental as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the case for British 'historical amnesia' remains a proven one.&nbsp;

<h2>Why apologise now, since so much time has passed?</h2>

On a&nbsp;hot noon of 13th April, the Lee-Enfield rifles of General Dyer’s troops penetrated the Indian psyche to the point that even 104 years later, the colonial wounds from that tragedy have not become scars, which often&nbsp;fade away with passage of time. Sunak, with an apologetic atonement, can attempt to initiate the making of India’s Jalllianwala Bagh wound, an imperial scar of history.

Every day, over 150,000 people visit the Golden Temple shrine, passing through the site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. An apology would not undo the generational trauma hundreds of thousands Indians encounter in Amritsar every day. But it will definitely have a cleansing effect on the collective Indian psyche which continues to face colonial horrors of the past in the remnants of British loot, signs of subjugation, racism and killings scattered all over the country every day.&nbsp;

It would constitute a step towards atonement against a nation's colonial crimes. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre symbolises two centuries of horrors Indians faced under British rule. A British Prime Minister of colour showing moral courage to deliver an unequivocal apology for the same would go a long way for over a billion people still overcoming generational trauma of colonialism.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, by his own account, is a 'proud British Hindu'. Sunak has expressly embraced his Indian and Hindu heritage. At the same time, Sunak's moment of reckoning as a person of darker skin tone residing and working in 10, Downing Street – a former powerhouse of colonialism – has been widely celebrated by the people of former British colonies, in the United Kingdom and elsewhere.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, by his own account, is a 'proud British Hindu'. Sunak has expressly embraced his Indian and Hindu heritage. At the same time, Sunak's moment of reckoning as a person of darker skin tone residing and working in 10, Downing Street – a former powerhouse of colonialism – has been widely celebrated by the people of former British colonies, in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. The UK Prime Minister also holds a unique cross-sectional attribute as British person of colour of 'double-migrant' heritage, whose ancestors came to Britain from imperial India via Africa. The exhibition and celebration of one's heritage, such as lighting diyas on Diwali or visiting temples, is an obvious attribute of cultural rootedness. But an absolute absence of addressal of some tough questions on the same heritage, such as 'Who caused the Jallianwala Bagh massacre?', reflects a perilous state of imperial ignorance in Sunak’s leadership. That it were the British who committed the Jallianwala Bagh massacre from inception to nadir is a fact rather than a contested assertion. That an official count of dead, widely held false, from that bloodied Amritsar ground showed 379 Indians killed, is a fact at the face of brutish smugness of the Raj. ALSO WATCH | Britain refuses to apologise for Jallianwala Bagh massacre × As my colleague Prisha details here, General Reginald Dyer, the British Army officer who ordered the massacre, had 'made up [his] mind that [he] would shoot all men to death if they were going to continue the meeting at Jallianwala Bagh', located a short walk away from holiest Sikh shrine of Golden Temple in Amritsar in North India. If Sunak, as a person of colour in the Downing Street himself, cannot issue a clear and unequivocal apology for a British imperial crime as staggeringly monumental as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the case for British 'historical amnesia' remains a proven one. Why apologise now, since so much time has passed? On a hot noon of 13th April, the Lee-Enfield rifles of General Dyer’s troops penetrated the Indian psyche to the point that even 104 years later, the colonial wounds from that tragedy have not become scars, which often fade away with passage of time. Sunak, with an apologetic atonement, can attempt to initiate the making of India’s Jalllianwala Bagh wound, an imperial scar of history. Every day, over 150,000 people visit the Golden Temple shrine, passing through the site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. An apology would not undo the generational trauma hundreds of thousands Indians encounter in Amritsar every day. But it will definitely have a cleansing effect on the collective Indian psyche which continues to face colonial horrors of the past in the remnants of British loot, signs of subjugation, racism and killings scattered all over the country every day. It would constitute a step towards atonement against a nation's colonial crimes. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre symbolises two centuries of horrors Indians faced under British rule. A British Prime Minister of colour showing moral courage to deliver an unequivocal apology for the same would go a long way for over a billion people still overcoming generational trauma of colonialism. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rishi Sunak, the 'proud British', are you sorry for Jallianwala Bagh massacre?

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Exactly 104 years ago on this day, British military officer General Dyer, on April 13, 1919, ordered his troops to open fire on innocent Indians gathered in Jallianwala Bagh. What happened next was history.

What happened to General Dyer, the butcher of Jallianwala Bagh? | Trending on WION

On the morning of July 8, 1920, the British newspaper ‘Morning Post’ greeted its readers with an article titled "For General Dyer. The Man Who Saved India". The article was published days after the British authorities had removed General Reginald Dyer from his post after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which even today on its 104th anniversary remains etched as one of the deadliest bloodbaths in the history of India's independence struggle.

The article was published to appeal for funds to support Dyer's defence costs. In the first 12 hours, the newspaper had managed to collect £584 ($725), eventually raising the hefty sum of £26,000 ($32,308). What followed was a flood of gifts and letters in support of Dyer in the office of the newspaper. Among the many who contributed to the funds, one of the most renowned names was Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling.&nbsp;

Supporting Dyer's horrific action, the paper said that he “did his duty, regardless of consequences”.

“On General Dyer’s judgment, and his judgment alone, the future of Punjab, and it may well be of India, was placed, and fearlessly he did his duty. His worst enemies cannot say that the result of his action was a revolution; on the contrary, revolution gaining ground on every side was crushed,” the article read.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-mathematician-c-r-rao-honoured-with-math-nobel-prize-580969">Indian-origin mathematician CR Rao honoured with math ‘Nobel Prize’</a>

<h2>The fateful evening</h2>

People in huge numbers had gathered in Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919, which was also the day when people celebrated Baisakhi (the harvest festival of Punjab), for a public meeting to silently protest against the ban imposed on public assemblies. After some time, the silent meeting turned into gory bloodshed after General Dyer ordered the British troops to fire incessantly for around 10 minutes on the unarmed crowd without giving them any warning.

With only one exit and high walls, it became impossible for people to run for their lives. As the troops kept firing, dead bodies&nbsp;kept piling up. Panic-stricken people tried to cross the boundaries and some even jumped inside a well, which was present in the centre of the ground, with hopes of surviving&nbsp;the massacre. After the ceasefire, Dyer, along with his troops, marched back to the base leaving the dead and wounded on the ground. Officially 379 people were killed in the massacre, however, the count is believed to be much higher.

After the killing at Jallianwala Bagh, Punjab was placed under martial law by the government. Weeks later, a British missionary woman was assaulted after which General Dyer gave the "crawling order" on a street, making it compulsory for people to crawl on their four legs if they wished to pass by.

<h2>Hunter Commission and Dyer's fear&nbsp;</h2>

Six months after the massacre, on October 14, 1919, a committee was constituted by Secretary of State for India, Edwin Montagu to investigate the incident. The Disorders Inquiry Committee was established accordingly with former Solicitor General of Scotland Lord William Hunter as the president.

The report prepared by the committee noted the incidents that took place in Amritsar before April 13, 1919. It pointed out how Dyer entered Jallianwala Bagh, accompanied by 25 Gorkha soldiers, 40 Gorkhas armed with only khukris, 25 Baluchis armed with rifles and two armoured cars.

“Without giving the crowd any warning to disperse, which he considered unnecessary as they were in breach of his proclamation, he ordered his troops to fire and the firing continued for about ten minutes,” the report stated.

The minority report of the committee brought out the evidence given by Dyer in great detail. He testified that his mind had already been made up to order the firing when he reached the Bagh.

“I had made up my mind. I was only wondering whether I should do it or not….The situation was very, very serious. I had made up my mind that I would shoot all men to death if they were going to continue the meeting,” he said.

The most shocking was the comments made by Dyer in the investigation. Dyer had testified that he was changing the directions of firing time and again and was directing the armed soldiers to fire where the crowds were the thickest.

He had also accepted that he would have allowed armoured cars to enter and fire using machine guns inside the walled compound if the entrance was not narrow.

“They had come to fight... if they defied me I was going to give them a lesson…I was going to punish them. My idea from the military point of view was to make a wide impression,” Dyer had said.

He had also accepted that there was a possibility that the crowd would have dispersed without firing. Dyer said, “Yes, I think it quite possible that I could have dispersed them perhaps even without firing….I could disperse them for some time then they would all come back and laugh at me, and I considered I would be making myself a fool”.

WATCH | India-China Tensions: China bars two Indian journalists from returning to Beijing

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<h2>How did the British government react to the report?</h2>

Montagu, while accepting that Dyer used disproportionate force, opined, “Brig Gen Dyer displayed honesty of purpose and unflinching adherence to his conception of his duty that cannot for a moment be questioned”.

Disappointingly, Viceroy Lord Chelmsford called the actions of Gen Dyer as ‘bona fide’ and ‘dictated by a stern sense of duty’.

The case that should have ended in a recognition of crime against humanity was simply closed with Gen Dyer's resignation as Brigade Commander and no further employment in India.

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On the morning of July 8, 1920, the British newspaper ‘Morning Post’ greeted its readers with an article titled "For General Dyer. The Man Who Saved India". The article was published days after the British authorities had removed General Reginald Dyer from his post after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which even today on its 104th anniversary remains etched as one of the deadliest bloodbaths in the history of India's independence struggle.

On the morning of July 8, 1920, the British newspaper ‘Morning Post’ greeted its readers with an article titled "For General Dyer. The Man Who Saved India". The article was published days after the British authorities had removed General Reginald Dyer from his post after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which even today on its 104th anniversary remains etched as one of the deadliest bloodbaths in the history of India's independence struggle. The article was published to appeal for funds to support Dyer's defence costs. In the first 12 hours, the newspaper had managed to collect £584 ($725), eventually raising the hefty sum of £26,000 ($32,308). What followed was a flood of gifts and letters in support of Dyer in the office of the newspaper. Among the many who contributed to the funds, one of the most renowned names was Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling. Supporting Dyer's horrific action, the paper said that he “did his duty, regardless of consequences”. “On General Dyer’s judgment, and his judgment alone, the future of Punjab, and it may well be of India, was placed, and fearlessly he did his duty. His worst enemies cannot say that the result of his action was a revolution; on the contrary, revolution gaining ground on every side was crushed,” the article read. ALSO READ | Indian-origin mathematician CR Rao honoured with math ‘Nobel Prize’ The fateful evening People in huge numbers had gathered in Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919, which was also the day when people celebrated Baisakhi (the harvest festival of Punjab), for a public meeting to silently protest against the ban imposed on public assemblies. After some time, the silent meeting turned into gory bloodshed after General Dyer ordered the British troops to fire incessantly for around 10 minutes on the unarmed crowd without giving them any warning. With only one exit and high walls, it became impossible for people to run for their lives. As the troops kept firing, dead bodies kept piling up. Panic-stricken people tried to cross the boundaries and some even jumped inside a well, which was present in the centre of the ground, with hopes of surviving the massacre. After the ceasefire, Dyer, along with his troops, marched back to the base leaving the dead and wounded on the ground. Officially 379 people were killed in the massacre, however, the count is believed to be much higher. After the killing at Jallianwala Bagh, Punjab was placed under martial law by the government. Weeks later, a British missionary woman was assaulted after which General Dyer gave the "crawling order" on a street, making it compulsory for people to crawl on their four legs if they wished to pass by. Hunter Commission and Dyer's fear Six months after the massacre, on October 14, 1919, a committee was constituted by Secretary of State for India, Edwin Montagu to investigate the incident. The Disorders Inquiry Committee was established accordingly with former Solicitor General of Scotland Lord William Hunter as the president. The report prepared by the committee noted the incidents that took place in Amritsar before April 13, 1919. It pointed out how Dyer entered Jallianwala Bagh, accompanied by 25 Gorkha soldiers, 40 Gorkhas armed with only khukris, 25 Baluchis armed with rifles and two armoured cars. “Without giving the crowd any warning to disperse, which he considered unnecessary as they were in breach of his proclamation, he ordered his troops to fire and the firing continued for about ten minutes,” the report stated. The minority report of the committee brought out the evidence given by Dyer in great detail. He testified that his mind had already been made up to order the firing when he reached the Bagh. “I had made up my mind. I was only wondering whether I should do it or not….The situation was very, very serious. I had made up my mind that I would shoot all men to death if they were going to continue the meeting,” he said. The most shocking was the comments made by Dyer in the investigation. Dyer had testified that he was changing the directions of firing time and again and was directing the armed soldiers to fire where the crowds were the thickest. He had also accepted that he would have allowed armoured cars to enter and fire using machine guns inside the walled compound if the entrance was not narrow. “They had come to fight... if they defied me I was going to give them a lesson…I was going to punish them. My idea from the military point of view was to make a wide impression,” Dyer had said. He had also accepted that there was a possibility that the crowd would have dispersed without firing. Dyer said, “Yes, I think it quite possible that I could have dispersed them perhaps even without firing….I could disperse them for some time then they would all come back and laugh at me, and I considered I would be making myself a fool”. WATCH | India-China Tensions: China bars two Indian journalists from returning to Beijing How did the British government react to the report? Montagu, while accepting that Dyer used disproportionate force, opined, “Brig Gen Dyer displayed honesty of purpose and unflinching adherence to his conception of his duty that cannot for a moment be questioned”. Disappointingly, Viceroy Lord Chelmsford called the actions of Gen Dyer as ‘bona fide’ and ‘dictated by a stern sense of duty’. The case that should have ended in a recognition of crime against humanity was simply closed with Gen Dyer's resignation as Brigade Commander and no further employment in India. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What happened to General Dyer – the butcher of Jallianwala Bagh?

On 13 April 1919, at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab, a large, peaceful crowd gathered to protest against the Rowlatt Act of British colonial govt, and the detention of pro-independence activists.

India@75: Massacre that prompted Tagore to renounce his knighthood

After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the restored Jallianwala Bagh memorial recently, the makeover has caught the attention of the netizens. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On social media, several people have hailed it while some have also opposed it.&nbsp;Debate is raging on whether the restoration tampered with the historically significant site.&nbsp;

But what are the facts?&nbsp;The pictures below speak for themselves.&nbsp;

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On careful observation of the restoration, the work looks to be a perfect makeover and not an attempt to tamper with the history. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the makeover, the walls of passage have been restored with murals depicting the people, who lost their lives in the violence. The martyrs' well, where several people jumped to save themselves, has also been preserved.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India holds talks with Taliban in Qatar's capital Doha

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The memorial has been built to honour the unarmed people who lost their lives during the peaceful protest at Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919 at the hands of British troops, who fired without warning on the directions of Colonel Reginald Edward Harry Dyer.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jallianwala Bagh used to be a public garden in the city of Amritsar. The horrific incident was registered in the history as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/before-vs-after-the-renovated-complex-of-jallianwala-bagh-memorial-409888" hreflang="en">Before vs after: The renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial</a>&nbsp;

At the inauguration, Modi had also posted a video on social media of a new sound and light show, which is a part of the revamp. &nbsp;

In the tweet, the PM said, "It (sound and light show) would display the horrific massacre of April 1919 and instill a spirit of gratitude and reverence towards the martyrs." &nbsp;

After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the restored Jallianwala Bagh memorial recently, the makeover has caught the attention of the netizens. On social media, several people have hailed it while some have also opposed it.

After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the restored Jallianwala Bagh memorial recently, the makeover has caught the attention of the netizens. On social media, several people have hailed it while some have also opposed it. Debate is raging on whether the restoration tampered with the historically significant site. But what are the facts? The pictures below speak for themselves. On careful observation of the restoration, the work looks to be a perfect makeover and not an attempt to tamper with the history. In the makeover, the walls of passage have been restored with murals depicting the people, who lost their lives in the violence. The martyrs' well, where several people jumped to save themselves, has also been preserved. Watch: India holds talks with Taliban in Qatar's capital Doha × The memorial has been built to honour the unarmed people who lost their lives during the peaceful protest at Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919 at the hands of British troops, who fired without warning on the directions of Colonel Reginald Edward Harry Dyer. Jallianwala Bagh used to be a public garden in the city of Amritsar. The horrific incident was registered in the history as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Also Read: Before vs after: The renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial At the inauguration, Modi had also posted a video on social media of a new sound and light show, which is a part of the revamp. In the tweet, the PM said, "It (sound and light show) would display the horrific massacre of April 1919 and instill a spirit of gratitude and reverence towards the martyrs."

Fact Check: Was Jallianwala Bagh memorial tampered with in restoration?

Before vs after: The renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial

Stressing that it is a country's duty to protect its history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that events of the past "teach us and give us direction to move forward", as he dedicated to the nation the renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial.

Modi, who inaugurated the complex virtually, paid homage to those killed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. "The global developments remind us of the importance of self-reliance and self-confidence."

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Renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh Smarak being dedicated to the nation. <a href="https://t.co/qvgSvFD422">https://t.co/qvgSvFD422</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1431613291722199041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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At a time when we are celebrating Amrut Mahotsav, we should strengthen our nation's foundation and take pride in it," the PM said. "Today, if any Indian is in trouble anywhere in the world, then India stands up to help him with all its might. Be it the corona(virus) period or the crisis of Afghanistan, the world has experienced it continuously. Hundreds of people from Afghanistan are being brought to India under Operation Devi Shakti," he said.

Modi said the dedication of the renovated complex in the country's 75th year of independence is a matter of inspiration for all. "It is the duty of every country to protect its history. Events of the past teach us and give direction to move forward," he said.

Horrors like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Partition speak of the sacrifices made for India's freedom and should not be forgotten as they inspire to keep the country above all.

"It is not right for any country to ignore such horrors of its past," he said, noting that August 14 is now being observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. "This place will inspire future generations about the journey of our Independence movement, the sacrifices and countless struggles of our ancestors. "

What should be our duty towards our nation and how we should keep the country above all in everything we do, the inspiration for this will come from this place," the PM said.

Quoting Gurbani, Modi said happiness emanates from empathy and service. For the all-round progress of Punjab and the country, a combined effort is needed, he said, adding that "virasat (heritage) and vikas (development) must coexist".

Modi said the people of Punjab have been the biggest victims of the country's partition. "We still feel the pain of what happened at the time of Partition in every corner of India and especially in the families of Punjab."

We will have to work together for the progress of Punjab and the country in every sphere with the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas," he said.

Referring to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the PM said those 10 minutes of April 13, 1919 became the immortal story of India's freedom struggle. He said Jallianwala Bagh is the place that inspired countless revolutionaries and freedom fighters like Sardar Udham Singh and Sardar Bhagat Singh to make sacrifices for the country.

During the event, Modi also digitally inaugurated the museum galleries at the memorial. The event also showcased the multiple development initiatives undertaken by the government to upgrade the complex. The PM noted that tribal communities contributed greatly to the freedom struggle and made many sacrifices. However, their contributions did not find mention in history books to the extent they deserve.

He added that work is underway on museums in nine states of the country to showcase tribal freedom fighters and their struggle.

Underlining the brave tradition of Punjab, Modi said that following the path of gurus, brave sons of the soil have fearlessly stood like a rock against all dangers facing the country.

Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs from Punjab and members of Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust, among others, were present on the occasion.

As part of the inaugural event, a wreath-laying ceremony was also held and a two-minute silence was observed in memory of those killed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

A sound and light show was held to depict the events of the day of the massacre. Four museum galleries have been created through adaptive reuse of redundant and underutilised buildings. They showcase the historical value of the events that unfolded in Punjab during that period, with the fusion of audio-visual technology, including projection mapping and 3D representation, as well as art and sculptural installations.

Over 1,000 people were killed and hundreds wounded on April 13, 1919 when British troops fired indiscriminately on an unarmed gathering of thousands who had assembled in Jallianwala Bagh amid nationwide protests against the Rowlatt Act which had extended wartime repressive measures.

Stressing that it is a country's duty to protect its history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that events of the past "teach us and give us direction to move forward", as he dedicated to the nation the renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial.

Stressing that it is a country's duty to protect its history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that events of the past "teach us and give us direction to move forward", as he dedicated to the nation the renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh memorial. Modi, who inaugurated the complex virtually, paid homage to those killed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. "The global developments remind us of the importance of self-reliance and self-confidence." Renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh Smarak being dedicated to the nation. https://t.co/qvgSvFD422 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2021 × At a time when we are celebrating Amrut Mahotsav, we should strengthen our nation's foundation and take pride in it," the PM said. "Today, if any Indian is in trouble anywhere in the world, then India stands up to help him with all its might. Be it the corona(virus) period or the crisis of Afghanistan, the world has experienced it continuously. Hundreds of people from Afghanistan are being brought to India under Operation Devi Shakti," he said. Modi said the dedication of the renovated complex in the country's 75th year of independence is a matter of inspiration for all. "It is the duty of every country to protect its history. Events of the past teach us and give direction to move forward," he said. Horrors like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Partition speak of the sacrifices made for India's freedom and should not be forgotten as they inspire to keep the country above all. "It is not right for any country to ignore such horrors of its past," he said, noting that August 14 is now being observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. "This place will inspire future generations about the journey of our Independence movement, the sacrifices and countless struggles of our ancestors. " What should be our duty towards our nation and how we should keep the country above all in everything we do, the inspiration for this will come from this place," the PM said. Quoting Gurbani, Modi said happiness emanates from empathy and service. For the all-round progress of Punjab and the country, a combined effort is needed, he said, adding that "virasat (heritage) and vikas (development) must coexist". Modi said the people of Punjab have been the biggest victims of the country's partition. "We still feel the pain of what happened at the time of Partition in every corner of India and especially in the families of Punjab." We will have to work together for the progress of Punjab and the country in every sphere with the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas," he said. Referring to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the PM said those 10 minutes of April 13, 1919 became the immortal story of India's freedom struggle. He said Jallianwala Bagh is the place that inspired countless revolutionaries and freedom fighters like Sardar Udham Singh and Sardar Bhagat Singh to make sacrifices for the country. During the event, Modi also digitally inaugurated the museum galleries at the memorial. The event also showcased the multiple development initiatives undertaken by the government to upgrade the complex. The PM noted that tribal communities contributed greatly to the freedom struggle and made many sacrifices. However, their contributions did not find mention in history books to the extent they deserve. He added that work is underway on museums in nine states of the country to showcase tribal freedom fighters and their struggle. Underlining the brave tradition of Punjab, Modi said that following the path of gurus, brave sons of the soil have fearlessly stood like a rock against all dangers facing the country. Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs from Punjab and members of Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust, among others, were present on the occasion. As part of the inaugural event, a wreath-laying ceremony was also held and a two-minute silence was observed in memory of those killed in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. A sound and light show was held to depict the events of the day of the massacre. Four museum galleries have been created through adaptive reuse of redundant and underutilised buildings. They showcase the historical value of the events that unfolded in Punjab during that period, with the fusion of audio-visual technology, including projection mapping and 3D representation, as well as art and sculptural installations. Over 1,000 people were killed and hundreds wounded on April 13, 1919 when British troops fired indiscriminately on an unarmed gathering of thousands who had assembled in Jallianwala Bagh amid nationwide protests against the Rowlatt Act which had extended wartime repressive measures.

India: PM Modi inaugurates renovated Jallianwala Bagh Memorial

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on April 13, 1919. British troops fired on hundreds of unarmed men, women and children in Amritsar. Official records put the death toll at 379, but historians say the number was closer to 1,000. 101 years on, Britain has not apologised for this deeply shameful chapter of its colonial past. Why do India's calls for a formal state apology from the British government continue to fall on deaf ears? Kishwar Desai, author of 'Jallianwala Bagh, 1919: The Real-Story' explains.

Jallianwala Bagh: Lest We Forget

Britain has never apologised for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Amritsar but the head of the Church of England prostrated himself to say sorry in a personal capacity and "in the name of Christ". British troops fired on thousands of unarmed men, women and children in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, killing 379 people according to colonial-era records. Indian figures put the total closer to 1,000. "I can't speak for the British Government as I am not an official of the British Government. But I can speak in the name of Christ," Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said as he visited the location in northern India on Tuesday.

Jallianwala Bagh massacre: Archbishop's sorry puts UK govt to shame

Britain has never apologised for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Amritsar but the head of the Church of England prostrated himself to say sorry in a personal capacity and "in the name of Christ".

Britain has never apologised for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Amritsar but the head of the Church of England prostrated himself to say sorry in a personal capacity and "in the name of Christ". British troops fired on thousands of unarmed men, women and children in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, killing 379 people according to colonial-era records. Indian figures put the total closer to 1,000. "I can't speak for the British Government as I am not an official of the British Government. But I can speak in the name of Christ," Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said as he visited the location in northern India on Tuesday. I feel a deep sense of grief, humility and profound shame having visited the site of the horrific #JallianwalaBagh massacre in Amritsar today. Here, a great number of Sikhs – as well as Hindus, Muslims and Christians – were shot dead by British troops in 1919. pic.twitter.com/p5fDprIMbr — Archbishop of Canterbury (@JustinWelby) September 10, 2019 × "I am so ashamed and sorry for the impact of the crime committed. I am a religious leader, not a politician. As a religious leader, I mourn the tragedy we see here," he added at the site, known in India as Jallianwala Bagh. On Facebook, he added that his visit aroused "a sense of profound shame at what happened in this place. It is one of a number of deep stains on British history. The pain and grief that has transcended the generations since must never be dismissed or denied." The event 100 years ago marked a nadir in Britain's occupation of India, and served to boost Indian nationalism and harden support for independence. In 1997 Britain's queen laid a wreath at a site during a tour of India. But her gaffe-prone husband Prince Philip stole the headlines by reportedly saying that the Indian estimates for the death count were "vastly exaggerated". In 2013 David Cameron became the first serving British prime minister to visit Jallianwala Bagh. He described the episode as "deeply shameful" but stopped short of a public apology. Ahead of centenary commemorations earlier this year, Cameron's since-resigned successor Theresa May on told parliament that Britain "deeply regretted what happened and the suffering caused." But she too didn't say sorry.

Archbishop of Canterbury prostrates at Jallianwala Bagh memorial, says 'sorry'

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby on Tuesday visited Jallianwala Bagh memorial and said that he was both 'ashamed and sorry' for the crime which was committed at that site in 1919. Welby also lied on the floor of the memorial after reading out a prayer to God to seek forgiveness. While paying homage at the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, Welby said, "I cannot speak for the British Government. I am not the official of the government but can speak in the name of Christ. It is a place for sin and redemption. You have remembered what they have done and their memory will live."

Archbishop: Jallianwala Bagh massacre a huge shame

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical".

While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress'&nbsp;as a trustee of the Trust.

"The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long.

The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December.

It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust.

The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House".

In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party.

Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical.

The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel. The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical". While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress' as a trustee of the Trust. "The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said. Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long. The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December. It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust. The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House". In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party. Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical. The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

Jallianwala Bagh Amendment Bill introduced in Lok Sabha, Congress opposes

On 100th anniversary, India pays homage to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar."

On April 13, 1919, some 50 British Indian army soldiers began shooting at unarmed civilians who were taking part in a peaceful protest against oppressive laws enforced in the Punjab region.

At least 379 Sikhs were killed, according to the official record, although local residents said in the past the toll was far higher. The massacre took place in the walled enclosure of Jallianwala Bagh, which is still pocked with bullet marks.

The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-do-little-more-than-very-deep-regrets-on-jallianwala-bagh-british-minister-mark-fields-209164">Indians have demanded an apology from Britain</a>, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997.

On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-tragedy-shameful-scar-on-british-indian-history-uk-pm-theresa-may-209295">the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar</a> on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology.

In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial.

"There are events in the histories of nations which are difficult to forget and they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-apology-not-regret-from-britain-says-kin-of-those-killed-in-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-209940">hold a very emotionally charged space in a nation's memory</a>," Navtej Sarna, a Sikh who has served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, told Reuters.

"We have an excellent relationship with the United Kingdom today but it's a question of assuaging sentiments and healing a wound which has been festering as part of our shared history." India gained independence from Britain in 1947.

Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said.

Residents of the city, tourists, visitors, top government officials and students took part in the candle lit evening march from a building called Townhall to the massacre site.

The march of about one kilometre was accompanied by loudspeakers playing patriotic songs and onlookers thronged the roadsides. At the end of the march, people observed a two-minute silence.

Punjab state's Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Governor V P Badnore took part in the march while Rahul Gandhi, president of the opposition Congress party, was expected to visit the city later in the evening.

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar.

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar." On April 13, 1919, some 50 British Indian army soldiers began shooting at unarmed civilians who were taking part in a peaceful protest against oppressive laws enforced in the Punjab region. At least 379 Sikhs were killed, according to the official record, although local residents said in the past the toll was far higher. The massacre took place in the walled enclosure of Jallianwala Bagh, which is still pocked with bullet marks. The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades Indians have demanded an apology from Britain, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997. On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology. In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial. "There are events in the histories of nations which are difficult to forget and they hold a very emotionally charged space in a nation's memory," Navtej Sarna, a Sikh who has served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, told Reuters. "We have an excellent relationship with the United Kingdom today but it's a question of assuaging sentiments and healing a wound which has been festering as part of our shared history." India gained independence from Britain in 1947. Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said. Residents of the city, tourists, visitors, top government officials and students took part in the candle lit evening march from a building called Townhall to the massacre site. The march of about one kilometre was accompanied by loudspeakers playing patriotic songs and onlookers thronged the roadsides. At the end of the march, people observed a two-minute silence. Punjab state's Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Governor V P Badnore took part in the march while Rahul Gandhi, president of the opposition Congress party, was expected to visit the city later in the evening.

Amritsar: Hundreds take candle march to commemorate Jallianwala Bagh massacre centenary

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-british-high-commissioner-lays-wreath-on-commemoration-of-100-years-of-massacre-209988">Jallianwala Bagh</a> in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre.

Jallianwala Bagh 1919: Punjab Under Siege' opened at Manchester Museum in time for Saturday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-apology-not-regret-from-britain-says-kin-of-those-killed-in-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-209940">100th anniversary of the tragedy</a> that affected thousands.

The exhibition is conceived as a lived experience creation, based on work with descendants and communities to collect stories related to the&nbsp; 
Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919.

Revisiting the event, its causes and aftermath, the nuanced exhibition explores what we remember, how we remember it, and what we have forgotten, in India and the UK, Manchester Museum said in a statement.

Protestors had gathered to challenge British rule before they were set upon by Colonel Reginald Dyer and his troops. Confined within an enclosed barren ground called Jallianwala Bagh in the Indian city of Amritsar, hundreds of Indians were killed and thousands injured. This was a defining moment in the fight for Indian independence and led to the eventual demise of the British Empire in South Asia, it adds.

The exhibition, supported by the Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCCC), comprising prominent Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs), is aimed at raising awareness around the peaceful protest to mark Baisakhi, the divergent British and Indian inquiry findings, and the ongoing social, political, and cultural response.

It is an apt moment for the British government to offer an apology to India, Manjit Singh GK, Patron-in-Chief of the JBCCC, said.

Both Secretary of State for War Sir Winston Churchill and former Prime Minister H H Asquith openly condemned the attack at the time, referring to it as monstrous and one of the worst outrages in the whole of our history,&nbsp; 
added Vikramjit S Sahney, Patron of JBCC.

There have been widespread calls for a formal apology to mark the 100th anniversary of the massacre this week, with the UK government earlier indicating that it was "reflecting" on the demand.

British Prime Minister Theresa May made a statement in the House of Commons earlier this week to say the UK deeply regrets the tragedy, which she described as a shameful scar on British Indian history.

The statement faced criticism for not going far enough, with the Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding a full, clear and unequivocal apology.

The wounds of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre still haunt millions and should be laid to rest at this the centenary of the horrendous act, Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma, Chair of the Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group, said in the Commons.

I appreciate the Prime Minister's comments, and thank her for her earnest words, but they are only the beginning of an apology not the full and frank formal apology that the communities affected need. I would also like to offer my fullest thanks to Jeremy Corbyn for his words of support, and his commitment to a full apology when he becomes Prime Minister, he said.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre has found prominence in the UK parliamentary agenda in recent months as both the House of Lords and Commons held debates to mark the centenary.

In their capacity as JBCCC members, Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had written to the British PM calling for an apology and will be marking the 100th anniversary with a special event in the House of Lords on Saturday night.&nbsp;

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on Jallianwala Bagh in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre.

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on Jallianwala Bagh in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre. Jallianwala Bagh 1919: Punjab Under Siege' opened at Manchester Museum in time for Saturday's 100th anniversary of the tragedy that affected thousands. The exhibition is conceived as a lived experience creation, based on work with descendants and communities to collect stories related to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919. Revisiting the event, its causes and aftermath, the nuanced exhibition explores what we remember, how we remember it, and what we have forgotten, in India and the UK, Manchester Museum said in a statement. Protestors had gathered to challenge British rule before they were set upon by Colonel Reginald Dyer and his troops. Confined within an enclosed barren ground called Jallianwala Bagh in the Indian city of Amritsar, hundreds of Indians were killed and thousands injured. This was a defining moment in the fight for Indian independence and led to the eventual demise of the British Empire in South Asia, it adds. The exhibition, supported by the Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCCC), comprising prominent Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs), is aimed at raising awareness around the peaceful protest to mark Baisakhi, the divergent British and Indian inquiry findings, and the ongoing social, political, and cultural response. It is an apt moment for the British government to offer an apology to India, Manjit Singh GK, Patron-in-Chief of the JBCCC, said. Both Secretary of State for War Sir Winston Churchill and former Prime Minister H H Asquith openly condemned the attack at the time, referring to it as monstrous and one of the worst outrages in the whole of our history, added Vikramjit S Sahney, Patron of JBCC. There have been widespread calls for a formal apology to mark the 100th anniversary of the massacre this week, with the UK government earlier indicating that it was "reflecting" on the demand. British Prime Minister Theresa May made a statement in the House of Commons earlier this week to say the UK deeply regrets the tragedy, which she described as a shameful scar on British Indian history. The statement faced criticism for not going far enough, with the Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding a full, clear and unequivocal apology. The wounds of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre still haunt millions and should be laid to rest at this the centenary of the horrendous act, Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma, Chair of the Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group, said in the Commons. I appreciate the Prime Minister's comments, and thank her for her earnest words, but they are only the beginning of an apology not the full and frank formal apology that the communities affected need. I would also like to offer my fullest thanks to Jeremy Corbyn for his words of support, and his commitment to a full apology when he becomes Prime Minister, he said. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre has found prominence in the UK parliamentary agenda in recent months as both the House of Lords and Commons held debates to mark the centenary. In their capacity as JBCCC members, Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had written to the British PM calling for an apology and will be marking the 100th anniversary with a special event in the House of Lords on Saturday night.

UK museum launches Jallianwala Bagh exhibition to mark 100th anniversary

Baisakhi, April 13, 1919. A hundred years ago on the Punjabi New Year’s day, British Indian troops fired 1,650 rounds of bullets into a large crowd of unarmed civilians assembled peacefully at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar. Among the 1,100 injured and 379 killed according to colonial records, were women and children, young and old, Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims. The actual fatalities were probably much higher, with independent sources putting the figure close to 1,500. Not long after independence, in 1951, this small walled garden close to the Golden temple, was declared a national monument.&nbsp;

On that fateful day, Brigadier General REH. Dyer, just arrived from Jalandhar Cantonment, virtually imposed martial law on the city. He banned all public meetings, convinced by his informants that a major insurrection was afoot. This prohibition was not widely publicised. Many villagers had gathered at the Jallianwalla Bagh to celebrate the Hindu-Sikh festival. Hearing of this large assembly, Dyer ordered a platoon of nearly 100 troops consisting of soldiers drawn from Sikh, Gurkha, Baluchi, and Rajput battalions to position themselves on a raised embankment nearby. He then commanded them to shoot at the crowd for some ten minutes.

Entering the Jallianwala Memorial today, one cannot but help notice that except for the narrow entrance, there would have been no way out for the terrified crowd. In the melee that ensured the round after round of deadly gunfire, many jumped into a well on the premises, but perished anyway, suffocated or drowned. Bullet marks on the walls of the park bear silent testimony to the atrocity that forever changed the relationship between imperial authorities and Indian subjects. No clear official apology has been forthcoming from our erstwhile rulers yet, although several pious regretful sentiments have been reported by worthies as varied and as far apart in history as former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the serving incumbent, Teresa May.&nbsp;

Justin Rowlatt was BBC’s South Asia correspondent till last year. His great-great-grandfather, Sir Sidney Rowlatt, authored the notorious Rowlatt Act behind many of the Punjab disturbances, Justin was unsure of how he would be treated in India. Fearing hostility, he was surprised and humbled by how spontaneously Indians warmed up to him, despite the deadly history that connected his family with our country. “I wasn’t expecting to react as strongly as I did when I visited Jallianwala Bagh,” he recalls in a moving account, “I certainly wasn’t expecting to cry…I have more reason than most to feel ashamed and humbled by what happened at the Bagh. That’s because the demonstrators who were killed by British troops had gathered there to protest against a repressive law inspired by and named after my great grandfather.”&nbsp;

The Rowlatt Act, dubbed as “no Dalil, no Vakil, no Appeal,” was a draconian measure to curb expressions of anti-colonial sentiment. Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson, Tushar Gandhi, reportedly went to the extent of telling Justin Rowlatt, “I appreciate your great grandfather’s role to provide the final nail in the coffin of the Empire.” Mahatma Gandhi, himself prevented from entering Punjab on April&nbsp;10,&nbsp;1919, was sent back to Bombay from Palwal, not too far from Delhi. It would be almost year later, on March 25, 1920 that he would submit his own detailed report and assessment of what happened on that fateful day. This fact-finding report by the Mahatma is a classic anti-colonial document of highest ethical standards even against a pitiless adversary.&nbsp;

The world did not know about the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on till many months after. Punjab was under Martial Law, with a news blackout. A careful reading of major English and North American newspapers of April&nbsp;14,&nbsp;1919, shows no reference to the massacre. Distorted snippets released mostly from Shimla, the summer capital of the Raj, only mention riots and unrest in Punjab. It was only a strong outcry from Indians that forced the British Government to appoint the Hunter Committee six months later October&nbsp;14,&nbsp;1919. It is only by December 1919 that the massacre began to be acknowledged. The Hunter Committee report was released on March&nbsp;20,&nbsp;1920.&nbsp;

Today, we want an unconditional apology from the British, but what about those who actually opened fire, the Indian soldiers who served the British? How is it that none of their descendants have said sorry? We didn’t hesitate to kill our own in service of the empire. Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims were united against the empire because of the Jallianwala massacre. But the Partition, and the bloodbath leading up to and beyond it, undid that unity, quite exceeding the sorrows and deaths of Jallianwala. Even today, India and Pakistan are fighting a costly if undeclared war. The monster that stares us in the mirror is not just our former colonial master but our own self.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-jallianwala-100-years-later-through-the-glass-darkly-2739014">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Baisakhi, April 13, 1919. A hundred years ago on the Punjabi New Year’s day, British Indian troops fired 1,650 rounds of bullets into a large crowd of unarmed civilians assembled peacefully at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar.

Baisakhi, April 13, 1919. A hundred years ago on the Punjabi New Year’s day, British Indian troops fired 1,650 rounds of bullets into a large crowd of unarmed civilians assembled peacefully at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar. Among the 1,100 injured and 379 killed according to colonial records, were women and children, young and old, Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims. The actual fatalities were probably much higher, with independent sources putting the figure close to 1,500. Not long after independence, in 1951, this small walled garden close to the Golden temple, was declared a national monument. On that fateful day, Brigadier General REH. Dyer, just arrived from Jalandhar Cantonment, virtually imposed martial law on the city. He banned all public meetings, convinced by his informants that a major insurrection was afoot. This prohibition was not widely publicised. Many villagers had gathered at the Jallianwalla Bagh to celebrate the Hindu-Sikh festival. Hearing of this large assembly, Dyer ordered a platoon of nearly 100 troops consisting of soldiers drawn from Sikh, Gurkha, Baluchi, and Rajput battalions to position themselves on a raised embankment nearby. He then commanded them to shoot at the crowd for some ten minutes. Entering the Jallianwala Memorial today, one cannot but help notice that except for the narrow entrance, there would have been no way out for the terrified crowd. In the melee that ensured the round after round of deadly gunfire, many jumped into a well on the premises, but perished anyway, suffocated or drowned. Bullet marks on the walls of the park bear silent testimony to the atrocity that forever changed the relationship between imperial authorities and Indian subjects. No clear official apology has been forthcoming from our erstwhile rulers yet, although several pious regretful sentiments have been reported by worthies as varied and as far apart in history as former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the serving incumbent, Teresa May. Justin Rowlatt was BBC’s South Asia correspondent till last year. His great-great-grandfather, Sir Sidney Rowlatt, authored the notorious Rowlatt Act behind many of the Punjab disturbances, Justin was unsure of how he would be treated in India. Fearing hostility, he was surprised and humbled by how spontaneously Indians warmed up to him, despite the deadly history that connected his family with our country. “I wasn’t expecting to react as strongly as I did when I visited Jallianwala Bagh,” he recalls in a moving account, “I certainly wasn’t expecting to cry…I have more reason than most to feel ashamed and humbled by what happened at the Bagh. That’s because the demonstrators who were killed by British troops had gathered there to protest against a repressive law inspired by and named after my great grandfather.” The Rowlatt Act, dubbed as “no Dalil, no Vakil, no Appeal,” was a draconian measure to curb expressions of anti-colonial sentiment. Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson, Tushar Gandhi, reportedly went to the extent of telling Justin Rowlatt, “I appreciate your great grandfather’s role to provide the final nail in the coffin of the Empire.” Mahatma Gandhi, himself prevented from entering Punjab on April 10, 1919, was sent back to Bombay from Palwal, not too far from Delhi. It would be almost year later, on March 25, 1920 that he would submit his own detailed report and assessment of what happened on that fateful day. This fact-finding report by the Mahatma is a classic anti-colonial document of highest ethical standards even against a pitiless adversary. The world did not know about the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on till many months after. Punjab was under Martial Law, with a news blackout. A careful reading of major English and North American newspapers of April 14, 1919, shows no reference to the massacre. Distorted snippets released mostly from Shimla, the summer capital of the Raj, only mention riots and unrest in Punjab. It was only a strong outcry from Indians that forced the British Government to appoint the Hunter Committee six months later October 14, 1919. It is only by December 1919 that the massacre began to be acknowledged. The Hunter Committee report was released on March 20, 1920. Today, we want an unconditional apology from the British, but what about those who actually opened fire, the Indian soldiers who served the British? How is it that none of their descendants have said sorry? We didn’t hesitate to kill our own in service of the empire. Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims were united against the empire because of the Jallianwala massacre. But the Partition, and the bloodbath leading up to and beyond it, undid that unity, quite exceeding the sorrows and deaths of Jallianwala. Even today, India and Pakistan are fighting a costly if undeclared war. The monster that stares us in the mirror is not just our former colonial master but our own self. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Jallianwala 100 years later: Through the glass darkly

Jallianwala Bagh centenary: Events that led to the darkest chapter of British colonial rule in India

As Jallianwala Bagh massacre will mark the 100th year on April 13, families of those killed said they demand an apology and not regret from Britain.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-tragedy-shameful-scar-on-british-indian-history-uk-pm-theresa-may-209295">Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar</a> on British Indian history. She also said that the United Kingdom deeply regret the tragedy but she stopped short of a formal apology.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday also rejected Britain's regret and&nbsp;demanded an unequivocal official apology.

Terming the tragic event as a heart-wrenching moment in India's history, the chief minister said: "People of India wanted an unequivocal apology from Britain for the atrocity. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha had passed a resolution demanding the same."

"The candles that had been lit today had rekindled memories of the sad day and would serve as a reminder of the sacrifice of the hundreds who were killed in the massacre and went on become an inspiring source of patriotism and nationalism for generations of Indians,"&nbsp;Amarinder Singh added.

Jallianwala Bagh massacre om April 13, 1919, was the deadliest attacks in the history of the world.&nbsp;

Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000.

"My mama-Ji (maternal uncle) Mela Ram was martyred at the age of 18 in the massacre," said 86-year-old Krishana Chohan, recounting how she grew up hearing tales about the incident.

"When the troops started indiscriminate firing on the peaceful gathering, everybody panicked, people started running helter-skelter without having any understating where to go. It was plain ground and there was only one exit, which was a narrow lane. As a result, there was a stampede and many fell upon each other and some fell inside the well in the ground," she told PTI.

She said her uncle was one of those who fell inside the well.

Britain's foreign office Minister Mark Field said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain.

As Jallianwala Bagh massacre will mark the 100th year on April 13, families of those killed said they demand an apology and not regret from Britain. British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar on British Indian history.

As Jallianwala Bagh massacre will mark the 100th year on April 13, families of those killed said they demand an apology and not regret from Britain. British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar on British Indian history. She also said that the United Kingdom deeply regret the tragedy but she stopped short of a formal apology. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday also rejected Britain's regret and demanded an unequivocal official apology. Terming the tragic event as a heart-wrenching moment in India's history, the chief minister said: "People of India wanted an unequivocal apology from Britain for the atrocity. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha had passed a resolution demanding the same." "The candles that had been lit today had rekindled memories of the sad day and would serve as a reminder of the sacrifice of the hundreds who were killed in the massacre and went on become an inspiring source of patriotism and nationalism for generations of Indians," Amarinder Singh added. Jallianwala Bagh massacre om April 13, 1919, was the deadliest attacks in the history of the world. Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000. "My mama-Ji (maternal uncle) Mela Ram was martyred at the age of 18 in the massacre," said 86-year-old Krishana Chohan, recounting how she grew up hearing tales about the incident. "When the troops started indiscriminate firing on the peaceful gathering, everybody panicked, people started running helter-skelter without having any understating where to go. It was plain ground and there was only one exit, which was a narrow lane. As a result, there was a stampede and many fell upon each other and some fell inside the well in the ground," she told PTI. She said her uncle was one of those who fell inside the well. Britain's foreign office Minister Mark Field said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain.

We want apology, says family of those killed in Jallianwala Bagh massacre

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar on British Indian history.

Theresa May said that the United Kingdom deeply regret&nbsp;what happened and the suffering caused in Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, as the British Prime Minister marked the 100th anniversary of the tragic incident but she stopped short of a formal apology.&nbsp;

On April 13, 1919, in Amritsar's Jallianwala Bagh British troops opened fire on thousands of unarmed protesters which remains an enduring scar of British colonial rule in India.

Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000.

At the start of May's weekly Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons she fell short of a formal apology sought by a cross-section of Parliament in previous debates and reiterated the "regret" already expressed by the British Government.

"The tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh of 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history. As Her Majesty the Queen (Elizabeth II) said before visiting Jallianwala Bagh in 1997, it is a distressing example of our past history with India," she said in her statement.

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Former British prime minister David Cameron described it as "deeply shameful" during a visit in 2013 but stopped short of an apology.

In a debate on the subject in London on Tuesday, foreign office Minister Mark Field said the massacre was a "shameful episode in our history and one that we deeply regret to this day."

He said: "It would not be appropriate for me, in the context of this particular debate, to apologise today, but I have found many of the speeches very very compelling and I will take up with the foreign secretary and number 10 Downing Street a sense that we perhaps need to do a little more than the very deep regrets that I have set out today."

He said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain.

A ceremony was due to take place at the site of the massacre on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar on British Indian history. Theresa May said that the United Kingdom deeply regret what happened and the suffering caused in Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, as the British Prime Minister marked the 100th anniversary of the tragic incident but she stopped short of a formal apology.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday said that the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy was a shameful scar on British Indian history. Theresa May said that the United Kingdom deeply regret what happened and the suffering caused in Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, as the British Prime Minister marked the 100th anniversary of the tragic incident but she stopped short of a formal apology. On April 13, 1919, in Amritsar's Jallianwala Bagh British troops opened fire on thousands of unarmed protesters which remains an enduring scar of British colonial rule in India. Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000. At the start of May's weekly Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons she fell short of a formal apology sought by a cross-section of Parliament in previous debates and reiterated the "regret" already expressed by the British Government. "The tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh of 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history. As Her Majesty the Queen (Elizabeth II) said before visiting Jallianwala Bagh in 1997, it is a distressing example of our past history with India," she said in her statement. × Former British prime minister David Cameron described it as "deeply shameful" during a visit in 2013 but stopped short of an apology. In a debate on the subject in London on Tuesday, foreign office Minister Mark Field said the massacre was a "shameful episode in our history and one that we deeply regret to this day." He said: "It would not be appropriate for me, in the context of this particular debate, to apologise today, but I have found many of the speeches very very compelling and I will take up with the foreign secretary and number 10 Downing Street a sense that we perhaps need to do a little more than the very deep regrets that I have set out today." He said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain. A ceremony was due to take place at the site of the massacre on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Jallianwala Bagh massacre: UK PM Theresa May expresses regret, but stops short of an apology

A British minister said on Tuesday there was an "active debate" in government about apologising for the killing of hundreds of Indian civilians, as India prepared to mark the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-flags-financial-implications-of-jallianwala-bagh-apology-calls-it-work-in-progress-209137">100th anniversary of the atrocity</a>.

On April 13, 1919, in Jallianwala Bagh British troops opened fire on thousands of unarmed protesters which remains an enduring scar of British colonial rule in India.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dt9RKu7i-W0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000.

&nbsp;

Former British prime minister David Cameron described it as "deeply shameful" during a visit in 2013 but stopped short of an apology.

In a debate on the subject in London on Tuesday, foreign&nbsp;office Minister Mark Field said the massacre was a "shameful episode in our history and one that we deeply regret to this day."

He said: "It would not be appropriate for me, in the context of this particular debate, to apologise today, but I have found many of the speeches very very compelling and I will take up with the foreign secretary and number 10 Downing Street a sense that we perhaps need to do a little more than the very deep regrets that I have set out today."

He said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain.

A ceremony was due to take place at the site of the massacre on Saturday.

Earlier Bob Blackman, the Conservative MP who organised the debate, also called for the British government to say sorry, "not just explaining away what happened, but apologising for our involvement and what was done in our name". 
&nbsp;

A British minister said on Tuesday there was an "active debate" in government about apologising for the killing of hundreds of Indian civilians, as India prepared to mark the 100th anniversary of the atrocity.

A British minister said on Tuesday there was an "active debate" in government about apologising for the killing of hundreds of Indian civilians, as India prepared to mark the 100th anniversary of the atrocity. On April 13, 1919, in Jallianwala Bagh British troops opened fire on thousands of unarmed protesters which remains an enduring scar of British colonial rule in India. Colonial-era records show about 400 people died in the northern city of Amritsar when soldiers opened fire on men, women and children in an enclosed area, but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000. Former British prime minister David Cameron described it as "deeply shameful" during a visit in 2013 but stopped short of an apology. In a debate on the subject in London on Tuesday, foreign office Minister Mark Field said the massacre was a "shameful episode in our history and one that we deeply regret to this day." He said: "It would not be appropriate for me, in the context of this particular debate, to apologise today, but I have found many of the speeches very very compelling and I will take up with the foreign secretary and number 10 Downing Street a sense that we perhaps need to do a little more than the very deep regrets that I have set out today." He said representatives from the British High Commission would visit the site to lay a wreath and that the government would also publicly acknowledge the centenary in Britain. A ceremony was due to take place at the site of the massacre on Saturday. Earlier Bob Blackman, the Conservative MP who organised the debate, also called for the British government to say sorry, "not just explaining away what happened, but apologising for our involvement and what was done in our name".

Need to do little more than very 'deep regrets' on Jallianwala Bagh: British minister Mark Fields

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week.

UK Foreign Office minister Mark Field told a debate on Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Westminster Hall in the House of Commons complex that while it was important to draw a line under the past over the shameful episode in history, repeatedly issuing apologies for events related to the British Raj came with their own problems.

I have slightly orthodox views on Britain's colonial past. I feel little reluctant to make apologies for things that have happened in the past, the minister said.

He added: There are also concerns that any government department has to make about an apology, given that there may well be financial implications to making an apology.

I feel we perhaps debase the currency of apologies if we are seen to make them for many, many events.

However, while reiterating the UK government's deepest regret over the massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, Field stressed that the issue of appropriately marking the sombre 100th anniversary remains a work in progress and an active debate was taking place amongst ministers and senior officials.

Importantly, our modern relationship with India is focussed on the future, on pooling our strengths However, I also recognise that the relationship is framed in part by the past, Field said, adding that he had been compelled by the latest debate to take a message back to Downing Street that perhaps a little more is required than the deep regret already expressed by the UK government.

Something is holding us back fulfilling the full potential of the flourishing relationship (with India) and I do accept that it (Jallianwala Bagh) perhaps grates particularly strongly, the minister said.

The debate, tabled by Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman, included a series of cross-party British MPs speaking on the enduring and very deep feelings and emotions the monstrous event continues to rise across the world.

Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma called for a formal apology to be made by British Prime Minister Theresa May, with others echoing the demand and also raising the prospect of a physical memorial to be constructed in memory of those who lost their lives.

Many of the MPs included an account of General Dyer firing on a Baisakhi gathering at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, without warning and blocking the main exit of the park with his soldiers and armoured vehicles.

Dyer is recorded as having continued to fire for 10 minutes even as the thousands gathered in the grounds tried to escape, leaving thousands dead and injured.

Blackman, in wrapping up the outcomes of the latest UK parliamentary intervention over the massacre, said the key messages that came out of the debate was that the incident must form part of the school curriculum in the UK and that a formal apology for the incident remains the right thing to do.

The Westminster Hall event follows a debate in the House of Lords in February when a government minister had confirmed that UK foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt was "reflecting" on demands for a formal apology to mark the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre this month.

In their capacity as members of a newly-formed Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCC), Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had also written to Theresa May calling for a formal apology.

The JBCC, chaired by businessman and philanthropist Sardar Balbir Singh Kakar and made up of a number of Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs) including members of the International Punjab Forum, is planning a commemorative event in the House of Lords on Saturday to mark the centenary of the massacre on April 13, 1919.

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week.

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week. UK Foreign Office minister Mark Field told a debate on Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Westminster Hall in the House of Commons complex that while it was important to draw a line under the past over the shameful episode in history, repeatedly issuing apologies for events related to the British Raj came with their own problems. I have slightly orthodox views on Britain's colonial past. I feel little reluctant to make apologies for things that have happened in the past, the minister said. He added: There are also concerns that any government department has to make about an apology, given that there may well be financial implications to making an apology. I feel we perhaps debase the currency of apologies if we are seen to make them for many, many events. However, while reiterating the UK government's deepest regret over the massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, Field stressed that the issue of appropriately marking the sombre 100th anniversary remains a work in progress and an active debate was taking place amongst ministers and senior officials. Importantly, our modern relationship with India is focussed on the future, on pooling our strengths However, I also recognise that the relationship is framed in part by the past, Field said, adding that he had been compelled by the latest debate to take a message back to Downing Street that perhaps a little more is required than the deep regret already expressed by the UK government. Something is holding us back fulfilling the full potential of the flourishing relationship (with India) and I do accept that it (Jallianwala Bagh) perhaps grates particularly strongly, the minister said. The debate, tabled by Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman, included a series of cross-party British MPs speaking on the enduring and very deep feelings and emotions the monstrous event continues to rise across the world. Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma called for a formal apology to be made by British Prime Minister Theresa May, with others echoing the demand and also raising the prospect of a physical memorial to be constructed in memory of those who lost their lives. Many of the MPs included an account of General Dyer firing on a Baisakhi gathering at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, without warning and blocking the main exit of the park with his soldiers and armoured vehicles. Dyer is recorded as having continued to fire for 10 minutes even as the thousands gathered in the grounds tried to escape, leaving thousands dead and injured. Blackman, in wrapping up the outcomes of the latest UK parliamentary intervention over the massacre, said the key messages that came out of the debate was that the incident must form part of the school curriculum in the UK and that a formal apology for the incident remains the right thing to do. The Westminster Hall event follows a debate in the House of Lords in February when a government minister had confirmed that UK foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt was "reflecting" on demands for a formal apology to mark the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre this month. In their capacity as members of a newly-formed Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCC), Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had also written to Theresa May calling for a formal apology. The JBCC, chaired by businessman and philanthropist Sardar Balbir Singh Kakar and made up of a number of Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs) including members of the International Punjab Forum, is planning a commemorative event in the House of Lords on Saturday to mark the centenary of the massacre on April 13, 1919.

UK flags financial implications of Jallianwala Bagh apology, calls it 'work in progress'

The Amarinder Singh-led Punjab government will build a memorial on the occasion of the centenary commemoration of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar with soil from all 13,000 villages of the state.

As per an official note issued by the Chief Minister's office, the Rural Development and Panchayats have been designated as the nodal department to coordinate with the Panchayats of all villages across the state for this cause.

The Chief Minister has also asked Amritsar Deputy Commissioner to identify a strategic spot in the city where the memorial could be erected with soil brought from these villages.

He also directed the Cultural Affairs and Tourism Department to engage with the Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust, which had created the Partition Museum at Town Hall, Amritsar, to conceptualise and plan the memorial.

"The Chief Minister has asked the Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs to coordinate with all the concerned departments to ensure a grand function at Amritsar on April 13, 2019. Captain Amarinder also asked the ACS Home to make elaborate security arrangements to ensure hassle-free access to the people for paying respects to the martyrs at the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial. At the same time, he said, the devotees visiting Sri Darbar Sahib should not be put to any sort of inconvenience caused during the centenary commemorations," the note read.

In addition to erecting the memorial, Amarinder suggested that the Department of School Education should include a chapter in its curriculum on the Jallianwala Bagh carnage to "imbibe the spirit of patriotism and nationalism amongst the students."

He also asked the ACS Higher Education and Secretary School Education to organise seminars, symposiums, declamation contests and panel discussions on the various aspects of the tragedy.

Responding to the suggestion, ACS Higher Education SK Sandhu informed that national seminars, along with symposiums on the theme of Jallianwala Bagh would be organised, in addition to printing and distribution of pamphlets and folders and staging of Nukkad Nataks.

Apprising the Chief Minister about the decisions taken by the State Level Implementation Committee, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu said that with a special focus on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the Art and Culture Heritage Trust would organise a Heritage Walk in the old Amritsar town, in addition to an exhibition depicting some known and unknown facts about the massacre.

Apart from these, an exhibition would also be held in 10 cities of the state to highlight the saga of the Indian freedom struggle.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on 13 April 1919 when troops of the British Indian Army under the command of Colonel Reginald Dyer fired machine guns into a crowd of unarmed protesters, along with Baishakhi pilgrims, who had gathered in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, Punjab.

The British government had released figures stating 379 dead and 1,200 wounded.

The Amarinder Singh-led Punjab government will build a memorial on the occasion of the centenary commemoration of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar with soil from all 13,000 villages of the state.

The Amarinder Singh-led Punjab government will build a memorial on the occasion of the centenary commemoration of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar with soil from all 13,000 villages of the state. As per an official note issued by the Chief Minister's office, the Rural Development and Panchayats have been designated as the nodal department to coordinate with the Panchayats of all villages across the state for this cause. The Chief Minister has also asked Amritsar Deputy Commissioner to identify a strategic spot in the city where the memorial could be erected with soil brought from these villages. He also directed the Cultural Affairs and Tourism Department to engage with the Arts and Cultural Heritage Trust, which had created the Partition Museum at Town Hall, Amritsar, to conceptualise and plan the memorial. "The Chief Minister has asked the Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs to coordinate with all the concerned departments to ensure a grand function at Amritsar on April 13, 2019. Captain Amarinder also asked the ACS Home to make elaborate security arrangements to ensure hassle-free access to the people for paying respects to the martyrs at the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial. At the same time, he said, the devotees visiting Sri Darbar Sahib should not be put to any sort of inconvenience caused during the centenary commemorations," the note read. In addition to erecting the memorial, Amarinder suggested that the Department of School Education should include a chapter in its curriculum on the Jallianwala Bagh carnage to "imbibe the spirit of patriotism and nationalism amongst the students." He also asked the ACS Higher Education and Secretary School Education to organise seminars, symposiums, declamation contests and panel discussions on the various aspects of the tragedy. Responding to the suggestion, ACS Higher Education SK Sandhu informed that national seminars, along with symposiums on the theme of Jallianwala Bagh would be organised, in addition to printing and distribution of pamphlets and folders and staging of Nukkad Nataks. Apprising the Chief Minister about the decisions taken by the State Level Implementation Committee, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu said that with a special focus on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the Art and Culture Heritage Trust would organise a Heritage Walk in the old Amritsar town, in addition to an exhibition depicting some known and unknown facts about the massacre. Apart from these, an exhibition would also be held in 10 cities of the state to highlight the saga of the Indian freedom struggle. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on 13 April 1919 when troops of the British Indian Army under the command of Colonel Reginald Dyer fired machine guns into a crowd of unarmed protesters, along with Baishakhi pilgrims, who had gathered in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, Punjab. The British government had released figures stating 379 dead and 1,200 wounded.

Punjab government to build Jallianwala Bagh massacre memorial with soil from 13,000 villages

UK Debates Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

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