Sanjay Raut Defends 1975 Emergency

Shiv Sena Leader’s Controversial Statement

On July 13, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut defended the Emergency imposed by the Congress party in 1975. He stated that if Atal Bihari Vajpayee had been Prime Minister at that time, he would have also imposed the Emergency. Raut added that Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) openly supported the Emergency.

Government’s Announcement

The Government of India announced that June 25 will be remembered annually as ‘Constitution Murder Day’ to mark the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi in 1975. Raut argued that the Emergency was necessary for national security, citing threats of anarchy and bombings.

Raut’s Criticism of BJP

Raut criticized the BJP, saying they are diverting the nation’s attention and that the Modi government’s actions over the past 10 years could also be seen as undermining the Constitution. He emphasized that Balasaheb Thackeray supported the Emergency to control anarchy in the country.

Lok Sabha’s Resolution

On June 26, the Lok Sabha adopted a resolution condemning the Emergency. Speaker Om Birla called June 25, 1975, a ‘black chapter’ in India’s history and praised those who opposed the Emergency and protected democracy.

The Legacy of the Emergency

The 1975 Emergency in India was marked by political turmoil and suppression of civil liberties. Declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it saw the suspension of fundamental rights and strict censorship. The Emergency ended in 1977 after public outcry and electoral defeat for the ruling party, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic values.