Anti‑Emergency Movement: A Defining Chapter That Secured the Soul of India’s Democracy, Says PM

TIT Correspondent
info@impressivetimes.com

New Delhi, June 25 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the principles of the Constitution and working collectively to realize the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ stating that the anti‑Emergency movement underscored the vital importance of preserving India’s democratic heritage.

In a series of tweets marking fifty years since the imposition of the Emergency, the Prime Minister paid homage to countless brave Indians who defended the ideals of democracy during one of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history. Recalling the grave assault on constitutional values, he stated that June 25 is observed as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas — a day when fundamental rights were suspended, press freedoms extinguished, and countless political leaders, social workers, students, and ordinary citizens were thrown into prison.

“No Indian will ever forget the manner in which the spirit of our Constitution was violated, the voice of Parliament muzzled, and attempts were made to control the courts,” the Prime Minister said. “The 42nd Amendment is a prime example of their shenanigans. The poor, the marginalized, and the downtrodden were particularly targeted, with their dignity being insulted.”

PM Modi emphasized that the Emergency, spanning from 1975 to 1977, was a pivotal moment that shaped the democratic consciousness of the nation. He called upon those who witnessed or suffered during those turbulent times — and the families who carry those memories — to share their stories on social media platforms. “It is our collective responsibility to educate the youth about this shameful period and ensure that the lessons learned from that era are never forgotten,” he said.

“Today marks fifty years since one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic journey — the imposition of the Emergency. The people of India mark this day as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas,” the Prime Minister asserted. “On this day, the cherished values enshrined in the Indian Constitution were set aside, fundamental rights suspended, press freedom extinguished, and countless leaders and activists imprisoned. It was as if the Congress government of that time placed democracy itself under arrest.”

PM Modi reiterated that despite the trials of the past, the resilience of the Indian people and their unwavering faith in democratic ideals have strengthened the nation. He called upon all citizens to unite, stay vigilant, and continue working toward the vision of a strong, prosperous, and democratic India for generations to come.