The end of the Second World War marked a dramatic change in the history of India’s struggle for freedom. From then onwards till the dawn of freedom in 1947, the political stage witnessed a wide spectrum of popular initiatives and perhaps the most significant, were the mass demonstrations of popular anger against the trials of INA personnel.

    After the final surrender by the INA to the British in South East Asia, the Government decided to try for sedition a large number of those who fought for the country’s freedom. The first trial began in 1945 at the historic Red Fort with three senior officers of the Azad Hind Fauz, Capt. Shah Nawaz Khan, Capt.P.K.Sahgal and Lt.G.S.Dhillon.

    They were charged with ‘Waging war against His Majesty the kingemperor…’ In reaction people clashed with the police and many were killed. Workers went on a general political strike and normal life wa paralysed. A strong....