Matangini Hazra and Kanaklata Barua

Why in news?

• President Droupadi Murmu, during her address on the eve of Independence Day, paid tribute to women freedom fighters. She mentioned two notable figures:

About Matangini Hazra:

• Born in 1869 in West Bengal, she was married at a young age and became widowed by 18. After her husband’s death, she dedicated herself to social causes and became deeply involved in the Nationalist movement, supporting Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals.
• Hazra participated in various protests, including the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt March.
• During the Quit India Movement in 1942, at the age of 73, she led a large procession of around 6,000 protesters, advocating for the takeover of the Tamluk police station. In the ensuing clash with British authorities, she was shot and killed, becoming a martyr for the cause of Indian independence.

About Kanaklata Barua:

• Kanaklata Barua was a young martyr of the Quit India Movement and a symbol of courage and determination.
• At just 17 years old, she led the Mrityu Bahini, a group of freedom fighters, in an attempt to hoist the Tricolour at the Gohpur police station in Assam in 1942.
• During the confrontation with the police, she was shot and killed while holding onto the flag.
• In 2020, a Coast Guard vessel was named after her as a tribute to her bravery.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following pairs:

Women freedom fighters : Role played in Indian Freedom Struggle

1.Rani Chowta : Tuluva Queen of Ullal who fought the Portuguese in 16th century

2. Matangini Hazra   : Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt March.

3. Jhalkaribai.  : Served in the army of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi during revolt of 1857

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1,2 and 3

Answer