Shahbad District / Patna, BIHAR :

The unsung saga of Bihar’s great freedom fighter who fought for justice, education, and national integration

New Delhi :

As the nation reflects on the sacrifices made by its freedom fighters, the story of Professor Abdul Bari stands out as a testament to courage, unity, and unwavering dedication to the oppressed.

Born in the small village of Shahabad in Bihar’s Jehanabad district, Prof Abdul Bari emerged as a towering figure in India’s struggle for independence, particularly known for his efforts to unite the working class and bridge communal divides.

Prof Abdul Bari, who completed his post-graduation from Patna University in 1920, was deeply concerned about the injustices faced by the oppressed, the poor, and the labourers. His commitment to their cause was unwavering, as he believed that their pain was his own. “He dreamt of liberating the country from slavery since his childhood,” said a historian familiar with his life. “He wanted to make the labourers a part of the national mainstream, constantly striving for social equality and justice.”

Prof Abdul Bari’s commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity was a cornerstone of his philosophy. He strongly opposed the divisive agendas of the Hindu Mahasabha and the Muslim League, believing that India’s independence and future development could only be achieved through unity. “Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Parsis, Jains, Buddhists — he saw them all as followers of one nation,” remarked a contemporary who knew him. “He stuck to this belief till the end, despite facing opposition.”

His first meeting with Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 was a turning point in his life. Impressed by his passion and work, Gandhi’s teachings and ideals became a guiding force for Prof Abdul Bari. He played a pivotal role in several movements, including the non-cooperation movement, where he worked alongside prominent leaders like Dr Rajendra Prasad and Dr Sri Krishna Singh. His influence among the workers of Bihar, Bengal, and Orissa was profound, and under his leadership, they became a formidable force in the freedom struggle.

Despite his towering achievements, Prof Abdul Bari lived a life of poverty, a fact that deeply moved Mahatma Gandhi when he visited his home after the latter’s assassination in 1947. “When Gandhi entered Prof Abdul Bari’s house, he was shocked by its simplicity,” recalled a family member. The stark contrast between his immense contributions to the nation and the humble conditions in which he lived highlighted his integrity and dedication.

In 1936, Prof Abdul Bari was elected to the Bihar assembly from Champaran and later became the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly in Bihar’s first democratic government. He also served as the Vice President of the Labour Inquiry Committee and led the Jamshedpur Labour Association at the request of Subhas Chandra Bose, securing significant improvements in workers’ conditions.

Tragically, on March 28, 1947, just months before India’s independence, Prof Abdul Bari was shot dead near the Fatuha railway crossing while returning from Ranchi to Patna. His assassination deprived Bihar of a true and honest leader, a voice for the workers, and a champion of Hindu-Muslim unity. He was laid to rest at Pir Mohani Graveyard in Patna.

Prof Abdul Bari’s legacy is a reminder of the importance of unity, justice, and dedication to the oppressed. As the nation honours its freedom fighters, his life and work serve as an inspiration to continue the struggle for a more just and equal society.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Alamullah, Clarion India / August 12th, 2024