PM Modi condemns Congress for Emergency rule

New Delhi

On the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke strongly against the Congress government’s actions during that period. He said no Indian will ever forget how the Constitution’s spirit was broken during the Emergency.

The Emergency, declared on June 25, 1975, is remembered as one of the darkest times in India’s democracy. Fundamental rights were taken away, the press was controlled, and many political leaders, social workers, students, and ordinary people were jailed. Modi called it a time when democracy itself was “placed under arrest” by the Congress government.

Last year, Modi’s government named June 25 as “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” (Constitution Murder Day) to remember those who suffered during the Emergency. He pointed to the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution made during this time, which changed many laws. This amendment, later reversed, showed how the government tried to control the country. The poor and marginalized people were hit hardest.

Modi praised the brave people from across India who stood against the Emergency. These people came from different backgrounds and ideas but united to protect India’s democracy. Their struggle forced the Congress government to end the Emergency and call new elections, which they lost.

The Emergency lasted for 21 months, from 1975 to 1977, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ruled by decree. Elections were canceled, civil rights were suspended, and the press was censored. The Emergency was officially declared because of “internal disturbance,” but many believe it was used to silence political opponents.

Modi ended by reaffirming his government’s promise to protect democracy and work toward a better India for all its people.