During Emergency, Congress strangled democracy to save power, says Pradhan
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday said that June 25, 1975, was the ‘darkest day’ in the history of Indian democracy when the then Congress Government attacked the very spirit of the Constitution, democratic institutions, and civil liberties to retain power.
Pradhan was addressing a gathering at an event to mark the 51st anniversary of the Emergency.
He emphasised that India is not just a geographical entity but a civilisation with thousands of years of cultural heritage and democratic traditions. He noted that India’s democratic ethos is deeply rooted in its civilisational values, which is why it is often referred to as the “Mother of Democracy.”
According to Pradhan, the framers of the Constitution, following India’s Independence, envisioned a nation where the people would hold the supreme power, and governance would operate within the framework of the Constitution.
However, by declaring the Emergency on June 25, 1975, the then Congress government sought to suppress these democratic ideals, he said. Pradhan said that during the Emergency, freedom of expression was restricted, the press faced censorship, opposition leaders were imprisoned, and countless activists endured severe hardship and persecution.
Highlighting that the fundamental rights of citizens were suspended, and an atmosphere of fear was created throughout the country, Pradhan accused the then Congress Government of misusing the State machinery to stifle political Opposition.
He stressed that democracy is not just about holding elections; it involves protecting individual liberty, freedom of thought, and upholding constitutional values.
As the world looks toward India with hope and confidence, Pradhan emphasised the importance of ensuring that the younger generation understands this dark chapter in the nation’s history.
Senior BJP leader and former MP Satya Pal Jain shared his personal experiences from the Emergency period, accusing the then Congress Government of misusing the entire administrative apparatus to quell political dissent.
He added that the suffering of those imprisoned extended beyond themselves, significantly impacting their families, who faced severe economic and social struggles.
Jain, who is also the Additional Solicitor General of India, stated that ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ is not just a day of remembrance; it provides an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of thousands of known and unknown democracy warriors who ensured the resilience of democratic institutions in India.
