Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the media before the commencement of the 1st session of the 18th Lok Sabha, underscored the significance of June 25th as a dark chapter in Indian constitutional history. He stated, “Tomorrow is June 25th. 50 years ago on this day, a black spot was put on the Constitution. We will try to ensure that such a stain never comes to the country.” PM Modi emphasized that the new generation of India must never forget the day when the Constitution was effectively nullified, democracy was suppressed, and the country was metaphorically turned into a prison. He urged citizens to pledge to protect India’s democracy and its democratic traditions to prevent such an event from recurring. The Prime Minister added, “We will take the resolution of a vibrant democracy and fulfill the dreams of the common people according to the Constitution of India.”
Understanding the Emergency
Indira Gandhi’s imposition of the Emergency in India from 1975 to 1977 remains a dark chapter in the country’s history, characterized by a severe assault on democracy and individual freedoms. The Emergency period marked a significant erosion of democratic institutions and principles, leading to widespread human rights violations and political repression.
Suspension of Democratic Processes
The Emergency began on June 25, 1975, when President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, upon the advice of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, declared a state of emergency across the nation. This proclamation came under Article 352 of the Indian Constitution, citing internal disturbances as the reason. One of the most critical impacts was the suspension of elections and the dissolution of legislative bodies. Indira Gandhi’s government dismantled essential pillars of democracy by halting the functioning of parliament and state assemblies. Without legislative oversight, the government operated without the crucial checks and balances necessary for a healthy democracy.
Suppression of Civil Liberties
During the Emergency, civil liberties were severely curtailed. Fundamental rights, such as freedom of speech, expression, and assembly, were restricted. The press faced heavy censorship, effectively silencing dissent and criticism against the government—a core tenet of any democratic society. Prominent newspapers like “The Times of India” and “The Indian Express” were forced to shut down their printing presses temporarily, and journalists faced arrests and harassment.
Political Repression and Imprisonment
The Emergency period saw the arrest and imprisonment of thousands of political opponents, activists, and ordinary citizens. Leaders from opposition parties, including Jayaprakash Narayan, Morarji Desai, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, were detained under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). The police were granted sweeping powers, leading to widespread abuses and human rights violations.
Forced Sterilizations and Slum Demolitions
One of the most controversial aspects of the Emergency was the forced sterilization campaign led by Sanjay Gandhi, Indira Gandhi’s son. The government aimed to control the population growth rate through coercive sterilizations, particularly targeting men from lower-income groups. Reports indicate that millions were sterilized, often without consent, leading to widespread public outrage and suffering.
Additionally, slum demolitions were carried out in major cities like Delhi, displacing thousands of people. These actions were part of Sanjay Gandhi’s drive to “beautify” the cities but resulted in significant human and social costs.
Judicial and Bureaucratic Compliance
During the Emergency, the judiciary and bureaucracy were expected to comply with the government’s directives without question. The landmark judgment in the case of ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla (1976), where the Supreme Court ruled that during the Emergency, the right to life and liberty could be suspended, remains a contentious and criticized decision. This judgment highlighted the extent to which democratic institutions could be compromised under political pressure.
Resistance and Aftermath
Despite the repression, resistance against the Emergency grew. Underground publications and covert operations by political activists kept the spirit of dissent alive. The widespread discontent culminated in the general elections of 1977, where Indira Gandhi and her party faced a crushing defeat. The Janata Party, a coalition of opposition groups, won a majority, and Morarji Desai became the Prime Minister.
The Emergency period remains a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic institutions and freedoms. The aftermath saw significant political and constitutional changes aimed at preventing such an abuse of power in the future.
Reflection and Resolve
Prime Minister Modi’s reference to the Emergency serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic values and the need to protect them. He called on citizens to learn from history and ensure that such an event never occurs again. The resolution to uphold a vibrant democracy is essential to fulfilling the aspirations of the Indian Constitution and the dreams of its people.
The Emergency period is an unforgotten spot in Indian history, a lesson on the perils of authoritarianism, and a testament to the resilience of Indian democracy.
(The author is a columnist and freelance writer.)