C. Sankaran Nair

  • Historical Context: Prime Minister Modi criticized the Congress for neglecting Chettur Sankaran Nair’s legacy.

  • Upcoming Film: A film, “Kesari Chapter 2”, based on the book “The Case That Shook the Empire,” is in production, highlighting Nair’s life.

  • Key Figure: Chettur Sankaran Nair was a prominent Indian jurist, statesman, and nationalist leader during British rule.

  • Early Life and Career: Born in 1857 in Kerala, he graduated in law and served as a judge, advocating for social reforms.

  • President of INC: He became the youngest president of the Indian National Congress in 1897.

  • Viceroy’s Executive Council: Served as the sole Indian member, advocating for constitutional reforms.

  • Jallianwala Bagh Protest: Resigned from the Viceroy’s Council in 1919 to protest the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. This was a bold move against the British.

  • Book and Defamation: Authored “Gandhi and Anarchy,” criticizing both Gandhi and British policies. Sued by Michael O’Dwyer for defamation.

  • O’Dwyer v. Nair Trial: Lost the defamation case in London but refused to apologize, highlighting his unwavering principles and the biases of

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the British system.

  • Legacy: Nair’s actions, especially his resignation and defiance in the trial, amplified nationalist sentiments against the British.