Announces ‘Constitution Assassination Day’ On 25 June The announcement, a pivotal one in the historical and political timeline of our country — aimed to honour introspection on an ugly phase that we enveloped as part of our democratic voyage. This piece explores the inception, historical background and ramifications of this newfound observance to give a holistic view on why June 25th is ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’.
The Historical Context of June 25
It is not a matter of chance that June 25 was chosen; it commemorates an event embedded in history with profound implications, which shape the contours of its democratic scaffold. JUNE 25, 1975: Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi announced a state of Emergency in India. Popularly known as The Emergency during this period, which continued until March 21, 1977 is remembered one of the most controversial and repressive periods in modern Indian history.
The Emergency was declared by President of India Shri Fakurddin Ali Ahmad – who technically has the custody of Indian Constitution to safeguard his position as Perpetual Candidate, ruling for four terms in succession with false non-enforcement due to Slave-files perpetrated under rarest-of-rare circumstances and displaced hegemony or sectarian violence that spells disrespect rather than compliance. In that period, civil liberties were suspended, political opposition was oppressed and the press heavily censored. Politicians and activists were detained without trial, while the judiciary was curbed by executive interference. And it also completely altered the equilibrium between state and society in Indian politics for weeks to come, even after twenty-one months of Indira Gandhi’s Emergency phase.
Declaring ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’
The current government recognises the Emergency as a massive exercise to murder the Samvidhaan and it is seeking, through its action on declaring June 25th as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’, an official recognition and remembrance of that erosion of constitutional values and democratic principles. It has derived its name from the Hindi phrase ‘Samvidhaan Hatya’ which means Constitution Assassination – indicating a perceived undermining and betrayal of the Indian constitution during this time.
The need for observation of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ is also to make the youth generation well aware with one of the most critical phases India ever faced, so that mistakes happened during Emergency should not be forgotten. It is a day to celebrate the courage of the protestors who resisted draconian measures and illustrates how important it remain vigilant in defence of democratic norms and constitutional rights.
The Impact of the Emergency on Indian Democracy
And Emergency era witnessed a marked alteration in politics and society of India. This in turn resulted into fear of confrontation and oppresion, suspending the basic rights including right to have free speecher on them. Measures such as mass sterilization drives, forced clearing of slum areas and media censorship during the Emergency controlled dialogue which could have otherwise become critical.
Thousands of political opponents, including seniors leaders from the Janata Party, established an aryan threat to democracy and consolationistary organisation in prison without trial. The courts, traditionally a bulwark of individual freedoms, came under intense pressure to fall in line with the government. Indeed, with the ghastly 42nd Amendment to the Constitution in place which sought restrictions on judicial power and more executive discretion about fundamental rights – thus unwinding further what had been visualized by its founders as a fine system of checks-and-balances.
The Role of the Media and Censorship
One of the most striking features of the Emergency was the imposition of strict censorship on the press. Newspapers were required to obtain approval from the government before publishing any news, and publications critical of the government were often shut down or severely restricted. This period saw the arrest of journalists and the suppression of free speech, which is a cornerstone of any democratic society.
The government’s control over the media during the Emergency is often cited as one of the darkest periods for Indian journalism. Many media houses were coerced into compliance, while others courageously attempted to resist and find ways to disseminate information to the public. The experiences of journalists during the Emergency highlighted the critical role of a free press in maintaining democratic accountability and transparency.
Resilience and Resistance
Despite the oppressive measures, the period of the Emergency also witnessed significant resistance and resilience. Leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, who spearheaded the opposition against Indira Gandhi’s regime, became symbols of the struggle for democratic restoration. The Janata Party, formed as a coalition of wdbos various opposition parties, played a crucial role in mobilizing public sentiment against the Emergency.
Underground movements, pamphleteering, and secret meetings became the tools of resistance. The resilience of the Indian people during this period underscored their deep commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. The eventual lifting of the Emergency in 1977 and the subsequent electoral defeat of Indira Gandhi’s Congress party marked a resounding rejection of authoritarianism and reaffirmed the importance of constitutional governance.
Legal and Political Repercussions
The aftermath of the Emergency had profound legal and political repercussions. The 44th Amendment to the Constitution, passed in 1978, sought to undo many of the changes made by the 42nd Amendment. It restored the power of the judiciary and re-emphasized the protection of fundamental rights. The legal safeguards introduced post-Emergency aimed to prevent the recurrence of such a period of unchecked executive power.
Politically, the Emergency period became a touchstone for discussions on governance and civil liberties. It led to a greater awareness and vigilance among the populace regarding their democratic rights. The political discourse in India was fundamentally altered, with the Emergency serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the need for constant vigilance to protect them.
The Significance of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’
The observance of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ is significant for several reasons. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of protecting democratic institutions. By commemorating this day, the government aims to foster a culture of remembrance and learning, ensuring that the mistakes of the past are not repeated.
Educational institutions, media outlets, and civil society organizations are expected to play a crucial role in the observance of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas.’ Through seminars, discussions, and public awareness campaigns, the history and lessons of the Emergency will be disseminated to a broader audience. This day will also serve as an occasion to honor those who fought against the oppressive measures and to reflect on the continued importance of democratic values.
Looking Forward: Ensuring Democratic Resilience
As India observes its first ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas,’ it is an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the state of its democracy and the measures needed to strengthen it. The lessons from the Emergency underscore the importance of a vigilant and informed citizenry, a free and independent press, and robust institutions that can check and balance the power of the executive.
Future generations must be educated about the events of the Emergency, not as a distant historical episode but as a vital lesson in the ongoing journey of India’s democratic evolution. The observance of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ should inspire renewed commitment to the principles of the Constitution and a collective resolve to uphold the democratic values that form the bedrock of the nation.
Conclusion
The declaration of June 25 as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ marks an important step in acknowledging and remembering a critical period in India’s history. It is a day to reflect on the fragility of democratic institutions and the importance of safeguarding constitutional values. As the nation commemorates this day, it is a reminder of the resilience of its people and the enduring strength of its democratic foundations. The lessons from the Emergency period must continue to guide the nation in its pursuit of a more just, equitable, and democratic society. If you like reading this article then please consider reading our article about Draniki.