New Delhi, June 25: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan paid tribute on Thursday to those who raised their voices to protect democratic and constitutional values during the Emergency declared in 1975. This commemoration coincides with ‘Constitution Martyrdom Day.’
In a post on X, the Vice President stated, “On Constitution Martyrdom Day, I humbly pay tribute to all the brave individuals who stood firm to defend democratic values during one of the darkest chapters in India’s history—the Emergency declared in 1975—and safeguarded the spirit of our Constitution.”
He emphasized, “The Emergency serves as a stark reminder of a time when constitutional values were severely tested. Civil liberties were suspended, freedom of expression was curtailed, and vital institutions of our democratic framework were weakened.”
The Vice President further urged, “Let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Constitution and continue to build a nation based on justice, freedom, equality, and fraternity.”
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to observe ‘Constitution Martyrdom Day‘ in Bihar, Haryana, and several other regions across the country to remember the anniversary of the Emergency imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.
As part of the nationwide observance, the party has planned various programs to highlight the impact of the Emergency on democratic institutions and civil liberties.
This event comes as India marks the 51st anniversary of the Emergency, which lasted from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977. This period is regarded as one of the most controversial and authoritarian episodes in independent India’s history, often referred to as a “black chapter” for democracy.
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