Amit Shah Condemns 1975 Emergency as a 'Period of Injustice'

New Delhi, June 25 (PTI) — Union Home Minister Amit Shah has denounced the Emergency imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, as a period of "injustice" driven by the Congress's "hunger for power" rather than any national necessity. Shah characterized the move as a manifestation of an "anti-democratic mentality," specifically attributing it to Indira Gandhi.

Paying homage to those who endured the hardships of that time, Shah emphasized the importance of remembering how the populace can rise against dictatorial authority and effect change. "The Emergency was the 'Age of Injustice' due to Congress' power hunger," he remarked, underscoring the significant impact on democratic freedoms.

The Modi government marks this date as 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' to ensure that the younger generation remains cognizant of the suffering and suppression inflicted upon the nation during this historical episode. "This day tells us that when power becomes dictatorial, the people have the power to overthrow it," Shah noted in a post on X, presented in Hindi.

Highlighting the suppression of press freedom, the constraints placed on the judiciary, and the incarceration of social workers, Shah reflected on the nationwide outcry that urged change. "The countrymen raised the slogan 'sinhasan khali karo' (vacate the throne) and uprooted the dictatorial Congress," he stated, honoring the sacrifices made by many in this struggle.

Last year, Shah declared that June 25 would be observed as 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas' to honor those who withstood the trials of the Emergency period. This observance aims to fortify individual liberty and democracy in India, thereby safeguarding against any recurrence of such authoritarianism.

A government-issued gazette highlighted that the Emergency, initiated on June 25, 1975, led to widespread governmental overreach and subjected Indian citizens to severe excesses and hardships.