New Delhi, June 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 51st anniversary of the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. He described this day as one of the darkest chapters in the history of Indian democracy. Targeting the Congress party, he urged citizens to remember this stain on democracy to prevent any future attempts to tread the same path.
On Thursday, Modi shared a post on Instagram with the hashtag ‘Constitution Murder Day,’ asking, “Do you know why June 25 is so significant in our democratic history?”
He stated, “The perpetrators of the Emergency will forever bear the mark of that grave sin. Today, we salute all those who stood firm. It is because of them that democracy survived. Never forgive, never forget.”
In his post, Modi included a clip of Indira Gandhi announcing the Emergency, where she was heard saying, “The President has declared a state of emergency.” He titled it, “51st Anniversary of the Emergency – Understand why it is considered the darkest chapter in Indian democracy.”
Modi emphasized, “Those who imposed the Emergency not only murdered our Constitution but also aimed to enslave the judiciary. During this period, people faced widespread persecution. There are numerous examples that can never be forgotten. George Fernandes was chained, and many suffered severe torture. Under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), anyone could be arrested arbitrarily. Students were also harassed, and freedom of expression was stifled. Thousands were arrested and subjected to inhumane atrocities.”
He added, “The media was silenced. The entire nation was turned into a prison, just to maintain power.”
Modi recounted his personal experience of the Emergency, stating, “I witnessed the suffering of millions. Life became unbearable for many. The records from Parliament speak for themselves. You can imagine what that time was like. The Emergency’s perpetrators not only killed our Constitution but also sought to control the judiciary. However, despite numerous arrests and atrocities against millions, the faith of the Indian people in democracy remained unshaken.”
He highlighted the power of public participation in overcoming significant crises. At a time when the media was silenced and fear prevailed, the strength of the Indian people shone through. Rising above caste, religion, and community, the nation voted in the elections and restored democracy. This is the strength of the Indian electorate.
In his message, Modi concluded, “One cannot forget the discussions around the Constitution and the sin of crushing it. The participants in this sin will never be absolved. It is crucial to remember this stain repeatedly to ensure no one wishes to tread that path again. Therefore, remembering is essential, not to blame anyone.”
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