Surajmal Jain, born on 1 April 1924, in Ranapur, Jhabua district, was a prominent freedom fighter. His father, Shri Miya Chand Jain, supported his early activism. Beginning in 1936-37, he participated in the Satyagraha movement. By 1942-43, he was actively involved in the national freedom movement, distributing publicity materials and pamphlets throughout the Jhabua area.
During this period, key figures like Kanhaiya Lal Vaidya, Mama Baleshwar Dayal and Kusumkant Jain were expelled from Jhabua and relocated to Dohar in Gujarat. This led Surajmal to intensify his efforts in the region. In 1946, he was elected Vice President of the "Deshi Rajya Lok Parishad" for Ranapur tehsil. He organized meetings and protests demanding responsible governance and rejected attempts at bribery.
Surajmal Jain’s leadership in the movement was significant in rallying public sentiment against the local ruler. His efforts included mobilizing tribal people and addressing social issues such as liquor consumption and theft. Notably, during 1946-47, no liquor was sold or consumed in Ranapur tehsil, and there were no incidents of theft or robbery. However, Jhabua Raja’s promotion of free liquor worsened the situation in Jhabua.
Surajmal also served as the President of the District Freedom Fighters Organization in Jhabua, contributing greatly to the struggle for independence and betterment of his community.
Surajmal Jain’s name is mentioned on page number 197 & 198 of the book "Vandan" published by Janparishad regarding the freedom fighters of Madhya Pradesh.
Source : Tikeshwar Prasad Gajpal, Contributor for CCRT.