Sir C. Sankaran Nair was a distinguished Indian nationalist, lawyer, and social reformer. His contributions to the legal field included serving as a judge of the Madras High Court and becoming a member of the Viceroy’s Council. Nair played a pivotal role in the fight against colonial injustices in India.
Sir Sankaran Nair is remembered for his outspoken criticism of the British government regarding the horrific events of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. In a bold move, he resigned from the Viceroy’s Executive Council to protest this brutal incident, showcasing his commitment to justice.
In response to Nair’s criticism, Michael O’Dwyer, the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab during the massacre, took legal action. He sued Nair in a British court for defamation, claiming that Nair had unjustly held him accountable for the killings.
The defamation case against Nair was tried in a British court. Despite presenting a robust defense, the jury sided with O’Dwyer, ordering Nair to pay £500. Nair, however, refused to apologize, standing firm in his beliefs.
This trial became significant as it drew international attention to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the broader repression faced by Indians under British rule. Nair’s defiance became a symbol of moral courage, inspiring many to stand against colonial oppression.
British officials and conservative Indian elites were often critical of Nair’s forthright criticisms and his unwavering stance against colonial rule. Nonetheless, many recognized his integrity and exceptional legal skills.
Sir Sankaran Nair passed away in 1934 at the age of 77. His legacy continues to inspire those who value justice and equality in society.
“Raise your voice, even if it shakes. For silence too, is an opinion – but never justice.”
Q1. What was Sir Sankaran Nair's role in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre?
Answer: Sir Sankaran Nair publicly condemned the British government's actions during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 and resigned from the Viceroy's Executive Council in protest.
Q2. What was the outcome of the defamation case against Nair?
Answer: In the defamation case brought by Michael O’Dwyer, the jury ruled in favor of O’Dwyer, ordering Nair to pay £500, which he refused to do.
Q3. How did Nair contribute to the Indian National Congress?
Answer: Nair served as the President of the Indian National Congress in 1897, where he advocated for Indian rights and reforms.
Q4. What was Nair's stance on Gandhi's non-cooperation movement?
Answer: Nair expressed his disagreements with Gandhi’s approach in his publication "Gandhi and Anarchy," highlighting differing views on achieving independence.
Q5. When did Sir Sankaran Nair pass away?
Answer: Sir Sankaran Nair died in 1934 at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of courage and commitment to justice.
Question 1: Who was Sir Sankaran Nair?
A) A British governor in India
B) An Indian nationalist leader
C) A social reformer in England
D) A famous British lawyer
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What action did Nair take after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre?
A) He wrote a book
B) He resigned from his position
C) He supported the British government
D) He fled to another country
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What was the consequence of the defamation case against Nair?
A) He won the case
B) He was ordered to pay £500
C) He became a hero
D) He was imprisoned
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What position did Sankaran Nair hold in the Indian National Congress?
A) Secretary
B) Vice President
C) President
D) Member of Parliament
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: In what year did Sir Sankaran Nair die?
A) 1924
B) 1934
C) 1944
D) 1954
Correct Answer: B
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