Bishwanath Roy

A Dedicated Patriot and Nation Builder

Shri Bishwanath Roy was a distinguished freedom fighter, social reformer, and parliamentarian who devoted his life to India’s struggle for independence and later to the nation’s development. His commitment to nationalism, social justice, and public welfare earned him widespread respect across the country.

Early Life and Education

Bishwanath Roy was born on 10 December 1906 in the village of Khukhundoo in Deoria district of Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a farming family and was the son of Shri Jagat Narain Rai. After receiving his early education at a village school, he completed his matriculation from Gorakhpur and later joined St. Andrew’s College, Gorakhpur.

During his student years, he actively participated in nationalist activities and was elected Secretary of the Hindu Chhatra Sabha, a student association committed to promoting the Swadeshi movement. Later, in July 1929, he enrolled in the Law College at Allahabad.

Roy was deeply influenced by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi as well as other nationalist leaders such as Madan Mohan Malaviya and J. B. Kripalani. He also came into contact with revolutionary figures like Sachindra Nath Viswas and was inspired by the sacrifices of martyrs such as Ram Prasad Bismil.

Role in the Freedom Movement

In 1928, Jawaharlal Nehru established the Indian Youth League, and Bishwanath Roy became a member of its executive committee. Working closely with Kamala Nehru, he helped promote nationalism and worked for the upliftment of the poor and marginalized.

Roy actively participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi. While still a law student, he organized a complete strike at his college. During a protest at Ghantaghar in Allahabad, when he and his colleagues attempted to hoist the national flag, police opened fire, killing two of his associates. Roy was arrested and imprisoned.

Despite pressure from family and friends to abandon the struggle, he continued his revolutionary activities and joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army, founded by Chandra Shekhar Azad. His underground activities led to his arrest by the British authorities, and he remained imprisoned from 1940 to 1946. During this period he endured severe hardship, including mental and physical torture, and even lost several members of his family.

While in prison, he interacted with Jawaharlal Nehru, who persuaded him to renounce violent methods and adopt the path of non-violence. Roy subsequently joined the Indian National Congress.

Service After Independence

After India gained independence, Bishwanath Roy continued to work tirelessly for national reconstruction and social progress. He devoted his efforts to improving the conditions of workers, peasants, and freedom fighters, while also encouraging rural communities to overcome social evils.

He established several schools and colleges in the Deoria region and wrote numerous articles for leading newspapers. His books, “Rashtriya Gadar” and “Kranti Vad,” reflect his deep commitment to nationalism and public service.

Roy also served as a Member of Parliament for five consecutive terms from 1952 to 1977, representing his constituency with dedication. In addition, he served as Deputy Minister of Labour, Employment and Rehabilitation in the Central Government and was associated with several public and governmental organizations.

Legacy and Commemoration

Shri Bishwanath Roy passed away on 27 August 1984 in Benaras (Varanasi). His life remains a testament to courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the nation.

In recognition of his contributions to India’s freedom struggle and nation-building, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp in his honour, celebrating the legacy of a patriot who devoted his life to the service of the country.