In a heartfelt tribute to India's freedom struggle, a Jamshedpur-based businessman has made a significant donation to preserve the legacy of the Indian National Army. Sekher Dey has donated a bronze statue of Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik to the museum of the INA Memorial Complex in Moirang, Manipur, dedicating it in the name of his father, Nirendra Kumar Nandi.
Historic Unveiling on Foundation Day
The bronze statue was officially unveiled on October 21, 2025, which marks the foundation day of the Azad Hind Government established by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Dey announced this significant contribution during a statement made on Saturday in Jamshedpur, emphasizing the importance of remembering India's freedom fighters.
"Every Indian should bow before the martyrs who laid their lives for the country," Dey stated while hailing the INA's substantial contribution to India's independence movement. His words echoed the sentiment that the sacrifices of these heroes should never be forgotten by future generations.
Manipur's Crucial Role in Freedom Struggle
Manipur holds a special place in India's freedom history as one of the Indian states where the Azad Hind Fauj crossed the border in 1944 during World War II. It was on this very soil that Netaji's army, the Indian National Army, fought a historic battle against British forces.
The Tricolour was hoisted on Indian soil for the first time on April 14, 1944, in what Dey described as "the final decisive battle of World War II which also marked the final battle for India's independence." This historic flag hoisting was conducted by Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik of the Bahadur Group, acting on direct orders from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
Filling a Historical Void
Prior to Dey's donation, a notable gap existed at the INA museum in Manipur - there was no photograph or statue of Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik to honor his crucial role in India's freedom struggle. Dey discovered this absence during a visit to the museum in February last year when he attended a seminar there.
"When I went there for a seminar, I pointed it out," Dey explained. "Later, I expressed interest in donating the bronze statue. After five months, I got the permission." His persistence and dedication to completing this project demonstrate his deep commitment to preserving India's historical heritage.
The donation serves multiple purposes: it honors Colonel Shaukat Ali Malik's legacy, pays tribute to Dey's father Nirendra Kumar Nandi, and ensures that future visitors to the INA Memorial Complex can learn about and appreciate the bravery of the Indian National Army soldiers who fought for the country's independence.
