Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on 30 January 1948 in New Delhi. He was shot three times in the chest at point-blank range by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist, during a prayer meeting at Birla House.
Reason for Assassination
Nathuram Godse and his associates opposed Gandhi’s ideology of non-violence, Hindu-Muslim unity, and his stance on the Partition of India. Godse believed that Gandhi was too accommodating to Pakistan and Muslim interests.
Aftermath
- Gandhi’s last words were reported to be “Hey Ram.”
- His funeral procession on 31 January 1948 was attended by millions.
- His ashes were immersed in various rivers across India.
- Godse and his co-conspirators were arrested; he was executed on 15 November 1949.
Legacy
Gandhi’s death was a great loss to India and the world. His principles of non-violence, truth, and peace continue to inspire global movements for justice and freedom.