Vakkam Abdul Khader, an INA (Indian National Army) soldier from Kerala, is a freedom fighter often overlooked in the history of the Indian independence movement. There are arguments that his omission from Left-leaning textbooks is because he sang ‘Vande Mataram’ just before his execution.
Life and Entry into the INA
Birth: Born on May 25, 1917, in Vakkom, Kerala.
Thirst for Freedom: Even before matriculation, he developed revolutionary ideas to liberate Bharat from the British clutches.
Travel Abroad: At the age of 21, he travelled to Malaysia for livelihood.
Joining the INA: At the age of 25, Abdul Khader found his true calling and joined the Indian National Army (INA). He was one of the 50 trainees at the Indian Swaraj Institute in Penang.
Espionage and Punishment
After receiving training in guerrilla warfare, the group he belonged to was sent to Bharat to gather intelligence on the British forces. However, due to inadequate preparation, the British captured them immediately upon entering India.
Arrest: Abdul Khader was part of the 20-member group that arrived from Penang.
Trial: The trial for the charge of “waging war against the King” was held at Madras Jail. Although all 20 were equally guilty, the British separated them region-wise and pronounced death sentences.
Death Sentence: Abdul Khader, Satyendra Bardhan, Fouja Singh, and Anandan were sentenced to death. Boniface Pereira, who was also in the group, escaped on technical grounds.
The Supreme Sacrifice
These four brave patriots were hanged on September 10, 1943.
Final Moments: The execution hall was filled with the echoes of slogans like ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’.
Last Message: In his last letter, Abdul Khader requested his father, relatives, and friends not to worry, stating that he was happy to give his life for Bharat Mata.
The Vajpayee Government later issued a postal stamp commemorating the sacrifice of these martyrs.
NM Kerala (wikibharat)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
