Neera Arya Biography: First Woman Spy for National Army (Azad Hind Fauj)

Neera Arya, whose name is remembered in the pages of India's freedom movement, is renowned as the first woman spy of the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army). Neera Arya was born on 5 March 1902 in Khekra Nagar, Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. Her father, Seth Chhajjumal, was a prominent businessman who provided his children with their education in Kolkata. Right from a young age, Neera was strongly motivated by the India independence cause and had a very patriotic spirit.

Joining the Freedom Movement

Neera Arya's entry into the freedom movement was early. Her patriotic spirit prompted her to enlist in the Rani Jhansi Regiment of the Azad Hind Fauj, an all-female regiment founded by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The regiment symbolized women empowerment and their direct involvement in the struggle for India's independence.

Personal Life and Turning Point

Neera's marriage was arranged by her father with Srikant Jai Ranjan Das, a British Army officer who was posted as a CID Inspector in India. But their marriage was marked by differences of ideology. While Neera was devoted to the freedom movement, Srikant was working for the British government. This difference of allegiances soon turned disastrous.

When Srikant found out about Neera's association with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's forces, he started interrogating her, asking her where Bose was. One day, when Neera ventured to go and see Bose, Srikant trailed behind her and, in a rage, fired at Bose's chauffeur. Expecting the danger to Bose's life, Neera did what any of us would do when faced with such a situation: she eliminated her husband, Srikant, thereby rescuing Bose from an immediate risk to life. This act of sacrifice and bravery was a turning point for her life.

Imprisonment and Unwavering Patriotism

For her acts, Neera Arya was arrested and put behind bars by the British colonial regime. She was put into the infamous Andaman and Nicobar Jail, an institution famous for its brutal treatment. In spite of the cruel conditions and efforts by the British authorities to shatter her will, Neera stood firm in the country's loyalty.

She was granted bail on the condition that she reveal details about the freedom struggle leaders, particularly Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Neera, however, declined to betray her fellow comrades and kept quiet, suffering greatly for the cause of India's independence.

Role as the First Woman Spy

Appreciating her courage, strength, and unshakeable dedication, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose awarded Neera Arya the title and honor of being the first woman spy of the Azad Hind Fauj. Her activities as a spy were pivotal in intelligence gathering and aiding the Indian National Army operations, making her a trailblazer in India's fight for freedom.

Later Life and Legacy

Neera Arya's service to the cause of freedom was long ignored. She spent her later years out of the limelight and passed away on 26 July 1998 at Osmania Hospital near Charminar, Hyderabad.

Recalling Neera Arya

The life of Neera Arya is an inspiration to unparalleled bravery, selflessness, and nationalism. Being the first female spy of Azad Hind Fauj, she opened doors to new possibilities and set a bold precedent for future generations. Her unflinching determination in the face of challenge and her determination not to compromise on her beliefs continue to inspire everyone who hears about her inspiring life.

Neera Arya is still a real unsung heroine of India's freedom struggle, and her tale is an important page in the history of the Azad Hind Fauj and women who fought for the country's freedom.