Will Congress Apologise for Strangling the Constitution During the Emergency?
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Synopsis
As the nation reflects on the Emergency's 50-year mark, former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad raises a poignant question about Congress's accountability. He highlights the constitutional violations, mass arrests, and forced sterilizations that tarnished India's democratic fabric, urging Congress leaders to confront their past actions.
Key Takeaways
- The Emergency drastically altered India's democratic landscape.
- Mass arrests included many prominent opposition leaders.
- Forced sterilization policies affected millions.
- Media censorship restricted freedom of expression.
- Accountability for past actions remains a critical discussion point.
Mumbai, June 25 (NationPress) Former Union Minister and prominent Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ravi Shankar Prasad asserted on Wednesday that the Constitution was severely compromised during the Emergency through numerous amendments. He questioned, "Will the Congress leaders express remorse for transforming the nation into a prison and inflicting torture on Opposition activists, along with the imposition of forced sterilisation surgeries on innocent citizens?"
He made these remarks at a press conference held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Emergency.
“During the Emergency, approximately 150,000 people were detained nationwide. Leaders from major opposition parties, including the Jan Sangh and various socialist factions, faced imprisonment. Notably, Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan and Morarji Desai were incarcerated in Haryana, with no permission granted for visits. Furthermore, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers and Jan Sangh activists endured severe physical abuse while in custody,” he claimed.
Referring to the rampant injustices during the Emergency, Prasad highlighted that out of 253 journalists targeted, 110 were taken into custody under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act, another 110 under the Protection of Information Act, and 33 faced charges under various serious offenses.
He noted that several senior journalists were also jailed, while the accreditation of 52 foreign journalists was revoked. Renowned journalist Mark Tully was among 29 foreign reporters banned from entering India. Additionally, pre-censorship was implemented on newspapers during this period.
“Government officials were assigned sterilisation targets, resulting in 6 million forced sterilizations, with some individuals sterilised even without being married,” he alleged.
Prasad concluded by stating that Congress leaders have yet to issue any apology for these grave atrocities.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the historical context of the Emergency and its long-lasting effects on India's democratic framework. Ravi Shankar Prasad's statements serve as a reminder of the importance of reflection and accountability in our political history, ensuring that such violations of rights do not recur in the future.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Emergency in India?
The Emergency in India, declared in 1975, was a period marked by the suspension of civil liberties and widespread political repression.
What were the consequences of the Emergency?
The Emergency led to mass arrests, censorship of the press, and forced sterilization policies, profoundly affecting civil rights.
Who was affected during the Emergency?
Prominent political figures, journalists, and ordinary citizens faced imprisonment and harsh treatment during this time.
Has Congress ever apologized for the Emergency?
As of now, Congress leaders have not issued a formal apology for the actions taken during the Emergency.
What role did the media play during the Emergency?
The media faced severe censorship, with many journalists arrested for voicing dissent against the government.
