Patna, June 25: Former National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Union Minister JP Nadda stated on Thursday that the Emergency imposed on June 25, 1975, was the most significant assault on Indian democracy, the Constitution, and civil liberties. He emphasized that the struggle to protect democracy and the Constitution began in Bihar and Patna, making the event commemorating ‘Constitution Murder Day‘ particularly significant.
Speaking at the ‘Constitution Murder Day’ event in Patna, Nadda noted that while programs are being organized nationwide by the BJP, this event holds unique importance as it marks the strong foundation of the fight against the murder of democracy that began in Bihar.
He pointed out that Gandhi Maidan, located just a short distance from Gyan Bhawan, witnessed the historic movement where Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan called for ‘Total Revolution’ on June 5, 1974. Nadda mentioned that he was personally involved in this movement during his student days and witnessed the events firsthand. He stated that the incidents of March 18, 1974, and June 5, 1974, were pivotal in laying the groundwork for that people’s movement.
Nadda criticized the Emergency for stripping away press freedom, crushing civil rights, and directly assaulting the fundamental spirit of the Constitution. He alleged that the Emergency was imposed to save power after the Allahabad High Court found then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi guilty of electoral irregularities, lasting nearly 21 months.
He claimed that during this period, 131,000 people were imprisoned without judicial process. Additionally, he mentioned that 11 million people underwent sterilization, with approximately 8 million cases occurring between 1975 and 1976. According to him, 150,000 houses were demolished in Delhi, leaving 700,000 people homeless, while over 300 journalists were imprisoned.
Nadda remarked that the 42nd Amendment during the Emergency extended the term of elected representatives from five to six years and attempted to place several constitutional positions above judicial review. He targeted the Congress party, stating that those who now advocate for saving the Constitution should first apologize to the nation for the Emergency.
He concluded by honoring the warriors of the JP movement, asserting that the purpose of remembering ‘Constitution Murder Day‘ is to educate the new generation about the realities of that era and to instill vigilance in protecting democratic values.
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