PM Modi Critiques Congress on Emergency’s 51st Anniversary, Emphasizes Commitment to Constitution

NEW DELHI: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in its critique of the Congress party, marking the 51st anniversary of the Emergency as a significant moment to reflect on constitutional integrity. Modi described the Emergency as an assault on the Constitution and reaffirmed his government’s dedication to upholding constitutional values.

Members of the BJP-led alliance highlighted the hypocrisy of Congress, which claims to be a proponent of the Constitution while simultaneously facing criticism for its history of undermining democratic principles. This relates to the civil liberties violations and erosion of democratic institutions that occurred during the 21-month Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Remembering a Dark Chapter

Home Minister Amit Shah mentioned the government’s initiative to observe June 25 as “samvidhan hatya diwas” (Day of Constitutional Murder), aimed at keeping the memory of this tumultuous period vivid in the national consciousness. He stressed that this remembrance serves to prevent Congress from attempting a similar affront to democracy and constitutional values in the future.

In his address, Modi stated,

“Today, we pay homage to all those who steadfastly defended democratic values during one of the darkest chapters in India’s history… The Emergency was a direct assault on our Constitution. It witnessed the suspension of civil liberties, curbs on freedom of expression, arrests of political leaders, journalists, and social workers, representing an attack on institutions that are the bedrock of our democracy.”

Calls for Accountability

BJP president Nitin Nabin emphasized that while Congress invokes the Constitution today, it has yet to offer an unconditional apology for the events of the Emergency.

Furthermore, Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat reflected on the bravery exhibited by numerous leaders who protested against the Emergency. He noted how many were incarcerated and how the “right to dissent” was criminalized during this period, highlighting the grave implications for civil rights and freedoms in India.