On August 8, 1942, the course of India’s freedom struggle changed forever. At the All India Congress Committee session in Bombay, under Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership, the Quit India Resolution was passed, demanding an immediate end to British rule. Gandhi’s historic appeal - “Do or Die” - was not just a slogan, but a call to every Indian to either free the country or sacrifice their life trying.

The British reacted swiftly. On August 9, Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad, and other top Congress leaders were arrested, and the Congress party was declared illegal. But instead of silencing the movement, this crackdown ignited a nationwide wave of protests, strikes, and civil disobedience.

From cities to villages, people of all backgrounds - students, women, farmers, and workers - joined the struggle. In Assam, Kanaklata Barua, just 17, was martyred while leading a flag-hoisting procession. Kushal Konwar was executed for his role in the protests. Leaders like Aruna Asaf Ali and Jayaprakash Narayan went underground to continue the fight.

Though brutally suppressed, the Quit India Movement shook the foundations of the British Raj. It proved that Indians were no longer willing to negotiate - freedom was the only demand. The unity and sacrifices of 1942 fast-tracked India’s independence in 1947.

Today, August 8 is marked by tributes, educational programs, and cultural events, reminding us that the courage of ordinary Indians built the foundation of our democracy. This day calls on us to protect the freedom earned through such immense sacrifice.