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1/2 Theresa May’s expression of regret for the British massacre of Indians at #JallianwalaBagh is a welcome first step. As someone who has long sought an apology from London for its colonial atrocities, I am glad her statement at least addresses the issue. But it is not enough.
The British PM must now express a “full, clear and unequivocal apology” as sought by her opposition leader, Jeremy Corbyn. More important, Britain must express atonement not just for one atrocity, but for the colonial evils of which #JallianwalaBagh was the symbol,not the cause.
Re these remarks by @theresa_may, , it really isn't about current UK-India relations, which are in good shape, but an expression of collective atonement by Britain for 200 years of exploitation of another country&its people. There are no other implications.
A genuine apology; teaching unvarnished colonial history in British schools as part of an honest history curriculum; & establishing a museum to colonialism, would together constitute serious atonement. When a wrong has been done in your name, "I'm sorry" goes a long way.
If the British Govt, w/all its current problems, can't bring itself to apologize on the centenary of #JallianwalaBagh, there are plenty of other anniversaries available in the long& inglorious history of the British Empire in India, to be used by a Govt w/the moral courage2do so.
