How Will BJP Educate Youth About the 'Sins' of Emergency?

Synopsis
The BJP's upcoming nationwide mock parliaments aim to educate the youth about the Emergency of 1975, described as a dark chapter in India's democracy. Party spokesperson Sambit Patra emphasizes the importance of understanding this historical event to prevent similar occurrences in the future. A must-read for all concerned about India's democratic values.
Key Takeaways
- The BJP is conducting mock parliaments nationwide to educate youth.
- The initiative focuses on the Emergency of 1975 and its impact on democracy.
- Educational institutions are encouraged to participate in this initiative.
- The aim is to prevent similar situations from arising in the future.
- The National Youth Parliament Scheme allows citizens to engage in democratic discussions.
New Delhi, June 13 (NationPress) The BJP is set to conduct mock parliaments nationwide aimed at enlightening the youth regarding the Emergency declared in 1975, a period considered the ‘darkest chapter’ in India’s democratic journey, as stated by party MP and National spokesperson Sambit Patra on Thursday.
In a media briefing, Patra emphasized, “The BJP aims to inform the younger generation about the ‘grave injustice’ perpetrated by the Congress during the Emergency, ensuring such actions are not repeated in the future.”
“It is crucial for the youth to understand how Prime Minister Indira Gandhi compromised the Constitution for her personal aspirations,” he remarked.
He highlighted the severe atrocities endured by the older generations during this time under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), which granted the government extensive powers for preventive detention and imposed press censorship.
Patra noted that the mock parliament discussions will be centered around this historical issue as part of a democratic initiative coinciding with the anniversary of the Emergency on June 25, 1975.
He stated that this mock parliament will aid in comprehending the current state of the nation and will be part of a nationwide campaign commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, a time when civil liberties were curtailed, and democratic institutions came under the direct control of the central government.
The Emergency, which lasted for 21 months, was instated by Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, shortly after the Supreme Court issued a conditional stay on an Allahabad High Court ruling that invalidated her election to the Lok Sabha.
At the governmental level, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs also promotes the organization of mock parliaments in educational establishments to raise awareness about democratic practices.
The Ministry launched the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) web portal on November 26, 2019, to broaden the reach of the Youth Parliament Program across recognized educational institutions throughout the country.
NYPS 2.0 has been introduced, allowing all citizens to engage via the portal through Institution Participation, Group Participation, and Individual Participation.
Through Institution Participation, educational institutions across the country can host Youth Parliament Sitings (YPS). Through Group Participation, citizens can organize YPS by forming either formal or informal groups.
Through Individual Participation, all citizens can take part in a quiz themed “Bharatiya Democracy in Action,” as per a Ministry statement.