A program commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, titled 'Constitution Assassination Day,' was held on Wednesday at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, recalling the painful period of the Emergency, stated that it was not just a date in history, but an experience that he and his family had lived through. He emphasized that the truth of this day must be known to the next generation.
The Chief Minister shared that his grand-uncle, the late Narhari Prasad Sai, had to spend 19 months in jail during the Emergency. He mentioned that at that time, the families of democracy fighters faced starvation, and the freedom of expression was suppressed.
Appeal to the Youth to Remain Vigilant
During the program, CM Sai met with the members of the families of the democracy fighters and presented them with shawls, coconuts, and symbolic gifts. He informed that the state government is providing a monthly honorarium of Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 to such families, as a gesture of respect for their struggle.
Addressing the students and youth, the CM said that it is the responsibility of everyone to protect the Constitution. He stressed that public awareness and active participation are essential to keep democracy b and alive.
A Stain on Democracy
Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, addressing the program, described the Emergency as the biggest blow to Indian democracy, stating that June 25, 1975, was the day when the entire country was transformed into an open prison. Thousands of people were imprisoned without any legal process and their voices were suppressed. He said that it was not just political repression, but an attempt to crush the spirit of democracy.
Dr. Singh urged the youth to study the history of the Emergency and learn from it. He warned that if citizens are not vigilant, such conditions could return.
Special Exhibition Showcased the Dark Truth of the Emergency
Chief Minister Sai and Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh also visited a special exhibition based on the Emergency during the program. This exhibition presented the repressive policies, the violation of civil rights, and press censorship of that era through pictures and documents. Both leaders described this initiative as a way to make the new generation understand the value of democracy and paid tribute to the democracy fighters.
