PM Modi Emphasizes Netaji's Link to Jharkhand's Gomoh in 'Mann Ki Baat'

New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Jharkhand's Gomoh is significant in India's quest for freedom, as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose last stepped on this soil before pursuing his mission for India's independence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this historical connection during the 118th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday.

Reflecting on the remarkable events of 'The Great Escape', PM Modi recounted, "In January during World War II in Kolkata, the discontent against British rule was palpable. Police were stationed at various points in the city, particularly around a house in central Kolkata. During this tumultuous period, a man donned in a brown coat, trousers, and a black hat emerged quietly from the residence. Evading numerous checkpoints, he made his way to Gomoh station in Jharkhand. From there, he boarded a train, making his way to Europe via Afghanistan, all while under the vigilant gaze of the British Empire."

PM Modi further stated, "This exhilarating tale may seem cinematic, but it epitomizes the extraordinary bravery of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. We honor January 23, his birth anniversary, as 'Parakram Diwas', celebrating his valor and unwavering spirit."

The events of January 18, 1941, encapsulate one of the most audacious moments in India's freedom movement. Under British house arrest at his residence on Elgin Road in Kolkata, Netaji masterminded an elaborate escape plan. Disguised as a Pathan, he left his home thanks to the assistance of his nephew, Dr. Shishir Bose, traveling in a Wanderer car (registration number BLA 7169). By 8 p.m., he arrived at the residence of his lawyer friend, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, in Gomoh’s Loco Bazar.

With Sheikh Abdullah’s aid, a Pathan outfit was swiftly crafted by Amin Tailor of Gomoh. Amin personally escorted Netaji to Gomoh station at 1 a.m. under the cover of night, where he boarded the Howrah-Peshawar Mail (later renamed the Kalka Mail). This train, in 2021, was rebranded as Netaji Express, taking him to Delhi. He continued his journey via the Frontier Mail to Peshawar, ultimately fleeing India and evading the British authorities.

To pay tribute to Netaji's legacy, Gomoh station was renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Junction in 2009. A life-sized bronze statue of him now stands between platforms 1 and 2, accompanied by a plaque recounting his daring escape.

Dr. Shishir Bose vividly recounted the poignant moment in his book, "At Gomoh station, a drowsy porter carried Netaji’s luggage as he ascended the overbridge and vanished into the shadows. Moments later, the Kalka Mail arrived, and I stood outside the station, listening to the sound of its wheels which propelled him further into history."

Historical documents indicate that the British only discovered Netaji's disappearance nine days later, on January 27, 1941. His escape was a meticulously coordinated effort involving key individuals like Satyaranjan Bakshi and freedom fighters Alijan and Chiranjeev Babu. Netaji’s audacious journey from Gomoh has inspired countless Indians to strive for independence.

Today, the legacy of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's bravery is immortalized at Gomoh Junction, serving as a reminder to future generations of his relentless fight for freedom and justice.