Answer

The Times of India called Sohan Lal Jain a “freedom fighter” because he was remembered as a participant in India’s independence movement, specifically as a Gandhian. In Indian usage, “freedom fighter” generally means someone who took part in the struggle against British colonial rule.

Based on the available description, he was not being described as a terrorist. The report refers to him as a “Gandhian and freedom fighter”, which strongly suggests association with non-violent nationalist activity rather than terrorism.

His Story

Sohan Lal Jain was reported by The Times of India as a Gandhian freedom fighter who passed away in Raipur on January 2, 2015. The article itself appears to be a short death notice and does not give many details about his specific role in the freedom movement.

So, what can be said carefully is:

• He was known publicly as a Gandhian.
• He was described as a freedom fighter, meaning he was associated with India’s independence struggle.
• He lived in Raipur and died there in 2015.
• The available report does not provide evidence that he was involved in terrorism or violent revolutionary activity.

Was “freedom fighter” ever used for violent revolutionaries?

Yes, in Indian history the term “freedom fighter” can include many kinds of anti-colonial activists:

• Non-violent Gandhians
• Social reformers and organizers
• Political prisoners
• Revolutionaries who used armed methods

But in Sohan Lal Jain’s case, the word “Gandhian” is important. A Gandhian identity is usually connected with ahimsa, satyagraha, civil resistance, and non-violent struggle.

Jain Perspective

From a Jain Dharma point of view, violence and terrorism are not acceptable because Jainism places the highest value on Ahimsa, non-violence. If Sohan Lal Jain was truly a Gandhian, that would be much closer to Jain ethical ideals than violent resistance.

Takeaway

Sohan Lal Jain was called a freedom fighter because he was remembered as part of India’s independence struggle. The description “Gandhian” indicates a non-violent background. There is no clear established information showing that he was a terrorist.