Critique of Freedom Fighters: Undermining Gandhi's Satyagraha and Revolutionaries' Sacrifices?

Criticism of Freedom Fighters Deemed Harmful to Nation

Nitin Bhardwaj, Senior Advocate and Independent Thinker, has labeled the ongoing criticisms and arguments directed at the two main pillars of India's independence struggle – Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent Satyagraha and the sacrifices of the revolutionaries – as detrimental to national interest.

He believes these criticisms stem from a failure to understand the intentions and contributions of freedom fighters, leading to confusion among the new generation. Bhardwaj emphasizes that individuals and ideologies contributed in their own ways, and not everyone will be satisfied with each approach.

The Principle of Merit-Based Utility

Bhardwaj highlighted that what we can gain from an object or person depends on our own capability and mindset. He used the example of milk, which can be transformed into yogurt, cheese, or ghee through positive thinking and skill, thereby increasing its value.

Conversely, someone who solely seeks flaws might turn milk into buttermilk, diminishing its worth. Applying this to freedom fighters, he stated that critics often point out shortcomings without understanding their motives, weakening national sentiment.

Two Paths of the Freedom Movement

Bhardwaj clarified that two primary ideologies were active during the freedom struggle. On one hand, Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent Satyagraha mobilized masses, changed suppressed mindsets, and connected common individuals to the fight for independence.

On the other hand, those who adopted the path of revolution re-established the legacy of sacrifice. The sacrifices of leaders like Bhagat Singh, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-Bal-Pal) ignited passion among the youth and provided a strong foundation for the movement.

Bhardwaj posits that destiny ensured both these methods existed, offering society two robust options.

Adverse Effects of Criticism on the Nation

Bhardwaj expressed regret that even years after independence, instead of thanking these patriots, their methods are being scrutinized for flaws. He noted that divisions like the "Gandhi clan" and "revolutionary clan" are being newly created, confusing the youth.

Some pit Gandhi against the revolutionaries, while others pit revolutionaries against Gandhi, without understanding their thoughts or circumstances. This situation, he argued, prevents the nation from fostering patriots for whom the nation was paramount.

He questioned whether anyone knew when independence would be achieved or if the leaders who rebelled against the British Empire in their youth would be handed power. He stressed that every nationalist acted as they deemed appropriate in the immediate circumstances, and their efforts were meaningful.

Today's critics, unable to achieve anything themselves, are devaluing the sacrifices of heroes who played their part in freeing the nation.

Expectation of Goodwill and National Interest

Bhardwaj suggested that as responsible citizens, if we deem reforms necessary in any nation-building effort, we should present those ideas directly to the concerned individual or group, rather than boasting publicly. This would prevent animosity and the creation of misguided opponents, which is detrimental to the nation.

If the reformer breaks down, their efforts will cease, and the nation will not benefit. He expressed hope that if people understood the spirit of the freedom fighters and the true meaning of their dialogues, letters, and speeches, every household would produce a patriot.

Such a patriot, armed with Gandhi's bow of thought and revolutionaries' arrows of sacrifice, would pledge allegiance to their national duty, targeting traitors. Perhaps then, the controversy of "Who brought independence?" would never have arisen.