Sankaran Nair: Patriot

Tribute to Fearless Voice: Prime Minister acknowledged Sir Sankaran Nair’s courage against British tyranny on the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Upcoming Film: “Kesari Chapter 2” is based on the book “The Case That Shook the Empire,” highlighting Nair’s fight for truth about the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Early Life and Principles: Born in 1857, known for his unwavering commitment to his beliefs, even when facing strong opposition. This made him unpopular with some British officials and Brahmins.

INC President: Youngest President of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1897, the only Malayali to hold that post.

Judge and Social Reformer: Appointed as a permanent judge of Madras High Court in 1908. Notable judgments supported social reforms, including inter-caste marriages.

Role in Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms: Contributed significantly to the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms in 1919, advocating for greater Indian participation in administration.

Resignation after Jallianwala Bagh: Resigned from the Viceroy’s Council in protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. This triggered reforms like lifting press censorship.

Defamation Trial: Accused Michael O’Dwyer of responsibility for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, leading to a defamation trial in England in 1922.

Trial Outcome and Impact: Although Nair lost the trial, it exposed bias in the British legal system, boosting nationalist sentiments in India. He refused to apologize, even to avoid the penalty.

Critique of Gandhi: Published “Gandhi and Anarchy,” critiquing Gandhi’s methods of non-violence.