Matangini Hazra And Kanaklata Barua:
President Droupadi Murmu, during her address on the eve of Independence Day, paid tribute to women freedom fighters. She mentioned two notable figures: Matangini Hazra and Kanaklata Barua ,exemplified the spirit of India’s struggle for independence and their contributions continue to be honoured and remembered.
Matangini Hazra:
- Born in 1869 in a village near Tamluk, West Bengal, she was married at a young age and became widowed by 18.
- After her husband’s death, she dedicated herself to social causes and became deeply involved in the Nationalist movement, supporting Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals.
- Hazra participated in various protests, including the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt March.
- During the Quit India Movement in 1942, at the age of 73, she led a large procession of around 6,000 protesters, advocating for the takeover of the Tamluk police station.
- In the ensuing clash with British authorities, she was shot and killed, becoming a martyr for the cause of Indian independence.
Kanaklata Barua:
- Kanaklata Barua was a young martyr of the Quit India Movement and a symbol of courage and determination.
- At just 17 years old, she led the Mrityu Bahini, a group of freedom fighters, in an attempt to hoist the Tricolour at the Gohpur police station in Assam on September 20, 1942.
- Despite her age, she was determined to lead the procession, and her brave efforts left a lasting impact.
- During the confrontation with the police, she was shot and killed while holding onto the flag.
- Her sacrifice inspired many during a time when women’s involvement in the freedom struggle was gaining momentum. I
- n 2020, a Coast Guard vessel was named after her as a tribute to her bravery.
