Many historical events lose their sheen over a period of time except when marked by occasional references by academicians of history (‘Magazine’ section, “The many meanings of Jallianwala Bagh”, April 7). But Jallianwala Bagh will go down in the annals of history as one of the darkest chapters in Indian colonial history. It sowed the seeds for the ultimate expulsion of the British. But India paid a heavy price. Unfortunately, Britain never showed any signs of remorse, with successive Prime Ministers not even inclined to offer an apology, the least one could have expected from the British. Hundred years is no doubt a very long period to harp on an issue any further when political equations have changed diametrically in the international arena. It is better to leave bygones as bygones and instead dedicate the occasion to living life in a more harmonious, civilised and tolerant way cutting across borders. That is the best tribute one can offer to the hundreds who lost their lives.
V. Subramanian
Chennai
That the British government has been dilly-dallying to apologise for its many errors speaks volumes about the impact of colonialism. I am reminded of several instances of such internal colonialism in India, an example being the Telangana movement in the 1960s. The message is simple and clear: one should learn from the past.
A. Vishweshwara Sharma,
Sangareddy, Telangana