India Declares June 25 as 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas' to Commemorate Emergency

In a significant move, the Indian government has announced that June 25 will be observed annually as 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas,' commemorating the declaration of the Emergency in 1975. This day is intended to honor those who endured severe hardships during that period and to remind the nation of the importance of safeguarding democracy. Union Home Minister Amit Shah made the announcement, emphasizing the day’s purpose in keeping the spirit of individual freedom and democratic defense alive in every Indian.

On June 25, 1975, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency, marking a dark chapter in Indian history. This period saw widespread abuse of power, with thousands of people imprisoned without cause and media censorship enforced. The government's actions during this time have been widely condemned as an attempt to stifle democratic freedoms and suppress dissent.

The declaration of 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas' serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by those who resisted the oppressive measures of the Emergency. A gazette notification from the Union Home Ministry detailed the significance of this observance. It highlights the “gross abuse of power” during the Emergency and pays tribute to those who fought against these excesses. The notification reaffirms the Indian people's faith in their Constitution and democracy, urging future generations to reject any form of authoritarianism.

Amit Shah, in his announcement, recounted the harsh realities of the Emergency, describing it as a time when the "soul of India’s democracy" was strangled. He noted that millions were unjustly imprisoned, and the media was silenced, preventing any form of dissent. He praised the resilience of those who struggled to restore democratic norms, despite facing brutal persecution.

The observance of 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas' aims to ensure that the memories of the Emergency remain a powerful deterrent against any future attempts to undermine India's democratic framework. It serves as an enduring tribute to the spirit of those who, in the face of severe adversity, fought to reclaim their rights and restore democracy.

The government's decision, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscores the importance of remembering and learning from the past. By commemorating 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas,' India not only honors the victims and fighters of the Emergency but also reinforces its commitment to protecting democratic values and freedoms for all its citizens.