The Central government has announced that June 25 will be observed annually as ‘Samwidhan Hatya Diwas,’ commemorating the day in 1975 when former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared an Emergency in India. This day, now marked to remember the suppression of democracy, will serve as a solemn reminder of the events during that period.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a post on X, stated, “On 25 June 1975, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, showing her dictatorial mindset, strangled the soul of Indian democracy by imposing emergency in the country. Lakhs of people were jailed without any reason and the voice of the media was suppressed.” He emphasized that the observance of ‘Samwidhan Hatya Diwas’ will honor the immense contributions and sufferings of those who endured the hardships of the Emergency.
A gazette notification issued by the Union Home Ministry highlights that the Emergency declaration led to a “gross abuse of power” and subjected the Indian populace to “excesses and atrocities.” This year, June 25, 2024, marks the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, which was imposed by the then Congress-led government. The ruling BJP has dubbed this day as “Kala Diwas” (Black Day), criticizing the Congress party for constitutional violations and the suffering inflicted on the people.
The period of the Emergency, from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, saw the central government exercising special constitutional provisions to impose strict legislative and executive powers. Indira Gandhi justified this decision by citing internal political unrest, threats to national security, and widespread disorder.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, supporting Shah’s announcement, remarked, “To observe 25th June as ‘Samwidhan Hatya Diwas’ will serve as a reminder of what happens when the Constitution of India was trampled over. It is also a day to pay homage to every person who suffered due to the excesses of the Emergency, a Congress unleashed dark phase of Indian history.”
The announcement and observance of ‘Samwidhan Hatya Diwas’ aim to ensure that the dark chapter of the Emergency is remembered and to honor the resilience of those who fought against the injustices during that time.
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