Chief Minister Remembers Emergency as a Dark Chapter in Democracy

Reflection on the Emergency's Impact

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma characterized the Emergency as a 'dark stain' on the democratic history of India, accusing the Congress party of compromising national interests for power. Speaking at an event held at the Constitution Club to mark the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, he stated that the midnight imposition of the Emergency on June 25, 1975, remains a blemish on the nation's democratic legacy.

He remarked, 'During this period, the then-government enforced undemocratic laws such as the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and the Defence of India Act (DIR), suppressing freedom of expression, press freedom, and fundamental rights.'

Sharma highlighted the sacrifices made by democracy fighters who endured severe hardships in prisons to uphold constitutional values, showcasing their struggle as an unparalleled example.

He noted that in line with the spirit of these democracy fighters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken significant steps to strengthen democracy and the Constitution in India. The Prime Minister initiated the celebration of Constitution Day on November 26 and honored Babasaheb Ambedkar by designating places associated with his life as Panchteerth. Additionally, the central government, which he supports, conferred the Bharat Ratna upon Ambedkar.

The Chief Minister asserted that under Modi's leadership, India stands as the world's largest and strongest democracy. Sharma reiterated similar sentiments at another event, the 'Democracy Fighters Honor Ceremony and Seminar.'

He stated, 'On June 25, 1975, the then-Indira Gandhi government declared a state of Emergency, making a vile attempt to crush India's democratic values. This day is recorded in Indian history as 'Constitution Murder Day.'

On this 50th anniversary of the Emergency, he emphasized the importance of remembering the brutality of that era, learning from it, and committing to ensuring that India's democracy never again falls victim to such oppression.

He added, 'During the Emergency, democracy was imprisoned. Citizens' fundamental rights were stripped away, and press freedom was locked down. Popular leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishna Advani, Sundar Singh Bhandari, and Dattopant Thengadi were incarcerated.'

The Chief Minister accused the Congress party of perpetuating appeasement, corruption, and power-hungry politics that harmed national interests, stating, 'This is the same party that even fragmented the country.'

During the event, the Chief Minister also honored democracy fighters and released a booklet.