Quit India Movement Sacrifices: Matangini Hazra & Lakshman Naik

This question asks about the specific historical movement during which two prominent freedom fighters, Matangini Hazra and Lakshman Naik, lost their lives. Understanding the context of India's struggle for independence helps in identifying the correct movement.

Understanding the Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a significant civil disobedience movement launched on 9 August 1942, at the Bombay session of the All-India Congress Committee. Initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, it called for an end to British rule in India. The slogan coined was "Do or Die". This movement marked a decisive phase in the Indian independence struggle, leading to widespread protests, strikes, and defiance across the country.

Sacrifices During the Quit India Movement

Both Matangini Hazra and Lakshman Naik made the ultimate sacrifice during the fervor of the Quit India Movement:

• Matangini Hazra: A dedicated Congress leader from Bengal, she was famously known as 'Gandhi Buri' (the old woman Gandhi). During the Quit India Movement, she bravely led a procession of around 6,000 people towards the Tamluk police station to hoist the Indian flag. Despite warnings, she advanced but was shot dead by the police. Her unwavering courage in the face of armed forces became a symbol of defiance.
• Lakshman Naik: Hailing from the Ganjam district of Odisha, Lakshman Naik was a respected tribal leader and freedom fighter. He played a crucial role in mobilizing people during the Quit India Movement in his region. He was arrested by the British authorities for his participation and alleged involvement in activities related to the movement. Later, he was sentenced to death and executed in March 1943, becoming a martyr for the cause of Indian independence.

Why Other Movements Are Incorrect

While the other movements listed were also crucial parts of India's freedom struggle, the specific sacrifices of Matangini Hazra and Lakshman Naik are historically linked to the Quit India Movement:

• Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): Primarily a peasant tax-revolt in Gujarat, led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): The first large-scale mass movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi, focused on non-violent non-cooperation with the British government.
• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934): Included actions like the Salt March, challenging British laws through non-violent civil disobedience.

The contributions and ultimate sacrifices of Matangini Hazra and Lakshman Naik are strongly associated with the intensified phase of the independence struggle during the Quit India Movement in 1942-43.