LOKMANYA TILAK AND THE PLAGUE
In the heart of British-ruled India, when fear gripped the city of Poona (now Pune) during a deadly plague outbreak in the late 1890s, one man dared to raise his voice against both the disease and the oppressive methods used to control it. That man was Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak—a fearless leader, a fiery writer, and a patriot who chose truth over fear.
The Plague Strikes Poona: As the bubonic plague spread rapidly across Poona, panic and chaos overtook the city. In response, the British government launched aggressive containment measures. These were not just strict but harsh and humiliating. People were forcibly removed from their homes, personal belongings were burned, and even women were subjected to intrusive inspections—violating the dignity and customs of Indian families.
The head of this operation, Walter Charles Rand, became infamous for his brutal tactics. Far from offering relief, the plague policies added to the misery of the already suffering people.
The Pen That Roared: Tilak’s Voice in Kesari
Amidst this crisis, Lokmanya Tilak emerged as a beacon of resistance. Through his Marathi newspaper, Kesari, he became the voice of the people’s pain. His editorials openly criticised the British response, exposing their insensitivity and cruelty.
In one of his most powerful writings, Tilak asked,
“Has the Government gone mad?”
He compared the plague and the British rule, calling both equally tormenting. Another article questioned:
“To what purpose are these plagues of insects coming to the Earth?”
Tilak did not promote violence, but his words ignited the public’s anger. He awakened the consciousness of Indians, making them realise that they had the right to question and oppose unjust rulers.
The Assassination and the Aftermath: On June 22, 1897, Walter Charles Rand and his aide Lieutenant Ayerst were assassinated by the Chapekar brothers, who had been deeply disturbed by the atrocities committed during the plague operations. Though Tilak had not incited the act, the British government needed someone to blame.
Tilak’s fearless writings became the prime evidence. He was arrested, charged with sedition, and put on trial. In court, Tilak defended himself with dignity, stating that he had only fulfilled his duty as a journalist—to expose the truth and stand with the people.
Despite his defense, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison. But rather than weaken his influence, this trial strengthened his image as a national hero.
Lokmanya: The Leader Loved by the People
This incident, remembered as part of the "Poona Riots", cemented Tilak’s place in the Indian freedom movement. His fearless stand against injustice, his willingness to suffer for his people, and his powerful use of the pen inspired thousands. He came to be known as "Lokmanya"—one who is accepted and revered by the people.
Tilak once said:
"Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it."
This was not just a slogan—it was a call to action, and it stirred an entire generation.
Conclusion: Lokmanya Tilak’s story is not just a chapter in history. It is a lesson in courage, truth, and leadership. Even in the darkest times, he showed that a single voice, when raised with conviction, can shake an empire. His life continues to inspire us to stand for what is right, no matter the cost.
