"Those who imposed Emergency murdered Constitution, made judiciary puppet": PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' radio broadcast on Sunday, paid rich tributes to those who fought against the 1975 Emergency, emphasizing that their struggles must always be remembered to inspire vigilance and strengthen the Constitution. The Prime Minister launched a sharp critique of the then-Congress government, stating that those who imposed the Emergency not only "murdered the Constitution" but also made the judiciary their "puppet.

Modi's condemnation, delivered without directly naming the Congress party or then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, comes amid an ongoing political tussle where opposition parties have accused the current government of imposing an "undeclared Emergency." He recounted the 21-month period between 1975 and 1977 as a time of widespread torture and suppression. "There are many examples which cannot be forgotten," he asserted, highlighting how individuals like George Fernandes were shackled, students harassed, and freedom of expression throttled.

To underscore the severity of the period, PM Modi played excerpts from speeches of prominent anti-Emergency politicians, including former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and former Deputy Prime Minister Jagjivan Ram. He recalled that thousands were arrested and subjected to "inhuman treatment" under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). However, he lauded the resilience of Indians who "did not bow and accept any compromise with democracy," ultimately leading to the lifting of the Emergency and the defeat of its imposers.

Noting that the 50th anniversary of the Emergency was recently commemorated as 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' (Constitution Murder Day), PM Modi reiterated the importance of recalling the bravery of those who resisted. He stressed that remembering their fortitude serves as a constant inspiration to remain alert and ensure the Constitution remains strong and enduring.