New Delhi, Dec 8 (NationPress) On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the Emergency (1975) during the celebration of the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in Parliament, highlighting the patriotic song as a cornerstone of India’s fight for freedom and a representation of the nation's resilience against tyranny.

Upon his entrance to the Lok Sabha, members of the ruling party erupted in chants of Vande Mataram, setting a vibrant atmosphere for this historic event.

PM Modi stressed that this commemoration transcends mere ceremony; it serves as a crucial moment of introspection regarding India’s democratic evolution. “We are privileged to be in this House… On this significant occasion, we are partaking in a moment that illuminates the core of our history,” he stated, encouraging Parliamentarians to utilize this dialogue as a learning opportunity for future generations.

He reminded attendees of the multitude of historical events that have transpired, encompassing the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and the challenges experienced during the Emergency.

The Prime Minister recalled that during the 100th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the nation was ensnared by the Emergency, resulting in shouts of “Shame, shame, shame” from the treasury benches.

PM Modi lamented that the Constitution was stifled, and many patriots were imprisoned.

He characterized this era as a “dark calamity” in India’s democratic narrative, juxtaposed with the current celebrations of 75 years of the Constitution and 150 years of Vande Mataram.

Furthermore, PM Modi connected this commemoration with other significant anniversaries being marked this year—the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Patel and Birsa Munda, along with the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur.

He expressed that these commemorations collectively embody the spirit of sacrifice and unity that have shaped India's destiny.

“The journey of the 150th year of Vande Mataram has traversed numerous stages. Today serves as an opportunity to reinstate pride in that remarkable chapter. I believe the Parliament and the nation must rise to this occasion. Such events should never recur,” declared PM Modi, emphasizing that the leadership of the freedom struggle was propelled by Vande Mataram, which instills vigor and spirit in freedom fighters.

He conveyed that this commemoration is not just a tribute to the past but also a reaffirmation of India’s democratic ethos, ensuring that the lessons learned from history remain relevant for the future.