Union cabinet passes resolution on Emergency

The Union cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday approved a resolution to recognize and pay tribute to the “sacrifices of numerous individuals who courageously opposed the Emergency” and its effort to undermine the essence of the Indian Constitution.

The Union cabinet observed a two-minute silence to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Emergency imposed in 1975 by Indira Gandhi’s Congress government, honoring the remarkable bravery and courageous opposition of everyday citizens who resisted the Emergency’s abuses, whose constitutionally protected democratic rights were stripped away and who faced “unimaginable horrors.”

“The year 2025 marks 50 years of the Samvidhan Hatya Diwas – an unforgettable chapter in the history of India where the Constitution was subverted, the Republic and democratic spirit of India was attacked, federalism was undermined, and fundamental rights, human liberty and dignity were suspended,” the resolution said.

It added, “The Union Cabinet reaffirmed that the people of India continue to repose unflinching faith in the Indian Constitution and the resilience of the country’s democratic ethos. It is as important for the young as it is for the old to draw inspiration from those who resisted dictatorial tendencies and stood firm to defend our Constitution and its democratic fabric.”

Referring to India, as the ‘Mother of Democracy’, the resolution noted that the nation stands as an example of “preserving, protecting and safeguarding constitutional values.”

Earlier today, Union health minister and Bharatiya Janata Party president, JP Nadda, claimed that the Congress maintains a dictatorial mindset, which led to the imposition of the Emergency. Nadda remarked that the Congress has struggled to accept the notion that someone from a modest background, such as Narendra Modi, serves as the prime minister of the nation.

Targeting Congress MP and Lok Sabha Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who claims the Union government disrespects the Constitution, Nadda remarked that the Opposition party has yet to apologize for the 21-month Emergency. Nadda stated that the law and order conditions in states governed by Congress mirror the Emergency, characterized by the repression of dissent, appeasement of religions, and a display of power arrogance.