Madan Mohan Somtiya

Why in news?

Madan Mohan Somtiya, a prominent freedom fighter, passed away at the age of 102 in Rajsamand district, Rajasthan.

• He had been suffering from heart and respiratory ailments and passed away at 7:15 AM in the presence of his family.
• He was admitted to Shri Govardhan Government District Hospital two weeks prior to his death.

Early Life and Inspiration:

• Born on September 14, 1922, to Ramkrishna Jat and Nanaki Bai, Somtiya was the youngest of 11 siblings.
• Both his elder brothers, Narendrapal Chaudhary and Rajendra Singh Chaudhary, were freedom fighters and instilled in him a strong sense of nationalism.
• At 15, Somtiya joined the Mewar Praja Mandal and actively participated in protests, processions, and distributing resistance literature.

Involvement in Mewar Praja Mandal:

• Mewar Praja Mandal was formed in April 1938 to oppose British rule and fight for social and political rights in Mewar.
• Somtiya quickly became involved in the movement, despite being considered "too young" to be detained by the British authorities.
• From 1938 to 1942, he was arrested several times but was often released due to his age.

Contributions to the Quit India Movement (1942):

• In the Quit India Movement of 1942, Somtiya played a pivotal role and was arrested twice, spending six months in jail on each occasion.
• He participated in a significant act of defiance: the blackening of Queen Victoria’s statue in Gulab Bagh, Udaipur.
• This act of resistance led to a mass arrest, with Somtiya being detained along with other activists.

Recognition and Honors:

• Somtiya received several accolades throughout his life for his contributions to the independence movement and social work.
• October 2, 1987: Awarded for his contributions to the freedom struggle and social justice.
• September 14, 2000: Honored on his 78th birthday.
• May 14, 2009: Felicitated by Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat.
• 2013: Honored by President Pranab Mukherjee.
• 2023: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot visited his residence to personally felicitate him.

Legacy:

• Somtiya’s life was defined by his dedication to freedom and social justice.
• He was a respected figure in Rajsamand and beyond, remembered for his bravery, selflessness, and lifelong commitment to India’s independence.