Sardar Ajit Singh was a prominent Indian nationalist, revolutionary leader, and freedom fighter from Punjab who played an important role in the early phase of India’s struggle against British rule. He was born on 23 February 1881 in Khatkar Kalan village, Punjab, and was the uncle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, one of India’s greatest revolutionaries.
Sardar Ajit Singh emerged as a powerful voice against British exploitation of farmers. He was one of the leading figures of the Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement (1907), which protested against the oppressive Colonization Bill and other anti-farmer laws imposed by the British government in Punjab. His fiery speeches awakened political consciousness among peasants and inspired mass resistance.
Because of his revolutionary activities and growing popularity, the British government considered him a serious threat. He was arrested and later deported without trial under the Defence of India Act. After this, Sardar Ajit Singh spent many years in exile, traveling through countries such as Iran, Turkey, Brazil, Switzerland, and Germany, continuing his efforts to mobilize international support for India’s freedom.
Despite facing hardships, poverty, and isolation in exile, he never abandoned the cause of independence. After nearly four decades abroad, he was allowed to return to India in 1947, shortly before independence.
Sardar Ajit Singh passed away on 15 August 1947, the very day India became free. He is remembered as a fearless revolutionary, a champion of farmers’ rights, and an inspiring nationalist whose legacy deeply influenced the revolutionary movement in Punjab and the life of Bhagat Singh.