In a significant move, British Conservative MP Bob Blackman has urged the UK government to issue a formal apology to India for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. Speaking in the UK Parliament, Blackman described the tragic event as a “stain on the British Empire” and emphasized the need for accountability ahead of the massacre’s anniversary on April 13.
In his speech, Blackman recounted the events of that fateful day when British troops, under the command of General Reginald Dyer, opened fire on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar’s Jallianwala Bagh. The massacre resulted in the deaths of over 1,500 people and left more than 1,200 injured. Blackman highlighted the brutality of the incident, where Dyer’s troops continued firing until they ran out of ammunition.
An apology long over due
Sharing a video of his address on X (formerly Twitter), Blackman wrote, “Today, I raised the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. I asked the Govt to formally give an apology to the people of India ahead of the atrocities anniversary.” This call for an apology comes as the world reflects on the atrocities of colonial rule.
While former UK Prime Minister Theresa May expressed “deep regret” over the massacre in 2019, no formal apology has been issued to date. Blackman’s statement has reignited discussions about Britain’s colonial past and its responsibility to acknowledge historical wrongdoings. Further responses from the UK government are awaited.
