Most Powerful Hunger Strikes of India
Hunger strikes by leaders and activists have played a major role in bringing social and political change in India.
A hunger strike is one of the oldest and most peaceful ways to protest in India. A person stops eating to show how serious their demand is and to draw the attention of the government and the public. Over the years, many famous leaders and activists have used hunger strikes to fight for justice, equal rights, and social change.
One of the earliest and most famous hunger strikes was by Bhagat Singh and other freedom fighters in 1929 inside Lahore Central Jail. They protested against the poor treatment of Indian political prisoners and demanded the same rights given to British prisoners. The hunger strike lasted 116 days and forced the British government to improve prison conditions.
In 1933, Mahatma Gandhi observed a 21-day fast to fight against untouchability and promote equality for Dalits. His fast encouraged social reforms and increased awareness about caste discrimination across India.
Freedom fighter Potti Sriramulu began a hunger strike in 1952 demanding a separate state for Telugu-speaking people. He died after fasting for 58 days. His sacrifice led to the creation of Andhra State in 1953 and later influenced the reorganisation of Indian states based on language.
In 2006, Medha Patkar went on a 20-day hunger strike against the Sardar Sarovar Dam project, saying displaced families had not been properly rehabilitated. The government promised to review the issue, but the project continued.
The same year, Mamata Banerjee observed a 26-day hunger strike against the acquisition of farmland in Singur for the Tata Nano project. The movement became a major political issue and later helped her become the Chief Minister of West Bengal.
In 2011, Anna Hazare launched a 13-day hunger strike demanding the Jan Lokpal Bill to fight corruption. The movement received nationwide support and later led to the passing of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act in 2013.
One of the longest hunger strikes in history was by Irom Sharmila. She began her protest in 2000 demanding the removal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) after the Malom massacre in Manipur. Her fast lasted nearly 16 years. Although AFSPA was not repealed, her protest drew worldwide attention to human rights issues, and she became known as the "Iron Lady of Manipur."
These hunger strikes have played an important role in India's history. While not every protest achieved all its demands, many brought major political, social, and legal changes and continue to inspire people across the country.
