Historic Anti-Emergency Movement Proved the Unyielding Strength of Democracy: PM Modi on Samvidhan Hatya Diwas

On the solemn occasion of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the resilience of the Indian people during the Emergency era, calling the anti-emergency movement a symbol of the undying spirit of democracy. His remarks came as the nation remembered the suspension of constitutional rights that began on June 25, 1975—a day that changed the trajectory of Indian politics and governance.

The Darkest Chapter in Indian Democracy

Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, or “Constitution Killing Day,” marks the imposition of the Emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It led to the suspension of civil liberties, press freedom, and judicial independence. Thousands of opposition leaders, activists, and journalists were jailed without trial, triggering widespread outrage.

Modi stated that this day stands not just as a historical reminder of authoritarian overreach but also as a testimony to the nation’s eventual triumph over tyranny through democratic means.

“The anti-emergency movement was not just a political protest; it was a people’s revolution. It reaffirmed the vitality of our democracy and the courage of every Indian who stood for the Constitution,” Modi said.

Anti-Emergency Movement: An Awakening of the Masses

During the 21-month-long Emergency, political dissent was crushed, media was censored, and the Constitution was bent to suit autocratic decisions. Yet, it was during this time that Indian democracy truly found its strength through resistance.

Leaders such as Jayaprakash Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and L.K. Advani became the faces of defiance. The streets saw students, farmers, civil servants, and ordinary citizens rise against the regime. The anti-emergency movement became a unified cry for restoring constitutional order and personal freedoms.

Modi’s Message: A Call for Democratic Vigilance

In his address, PM Modi urged the younger generation to remain vigilant and aware of this chapter in Indian history. He emphasized the need to protect the constitutional fabric and never take civil liberties for granted.

“Those who imposed the Emergency must be reminded that the Constitution is sacred. Our duty is to ensure no government ever dares to undermine democracy again,” he added.

Modi also pointed out that many of today’s democratic safeguards and public awareness have roots in the lessons learned from Samvidhan Hatya Diwas.

Democratic Strength in Present Times

Modi contrasted the state of governance today with that of the Emergency period. He underlined the transparency, citizen participation, and freedom of speech as non-negotiables in his administration. He said that the current political environment, with vibrant debates, active media, and an informed citizenry, is a direct outcome of the scars and struggles from that era.

“Democracy is not just about elections. It’s about debate, dissent, and the courage to question. We honor those who fought to preserve this,” said Modi.

Political Responses and Nationwide Observance

Several opposition parties and civil society organizations observed Samvidhan Hatya Diwas with rallies, seminars, and social media campaigns, revisiting the injustices and sharing testimonies of those imprisoned during the Emergency.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under whose leadership the movement gained momentum in the 1970s, held public events highlighting the lessons of the past. Meanwhile, historians and scholars released publications and digital archives to keep the memory of this pivotal period alive.

Why Samvidhan Hatya Diwas Matters Today

In the current global climate, where authoritarianism is on the rise in various parts of the world, remembering events like the Emergency becomes crucial. India’s brush with constitutional breakdown serves as a warning and an education for both citizens and leaders.

By observing Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, the nation recommits itself to the democratic ideals enshrined in the Constitution—freedom, justice, equality, and fraternity.

Conclusion: Learning from the Past, Safeguarding the Future

As India continues to grow as the world’s largest democracy, the memory of the Emergency and the anti-emergency movement remains a cornerstone of its democratic journey. Prime Minister Modi’s address on Samvidhan Hatya Diwas was not only a tribute to those who resisted but also a strong reminder that democracy must be protected, not presumed.

The day urges every citizen to be aware, involved, and courageous in the face of any threat to constitutional governance.