Is the Arrogance of Power and Nepotism Threatening Democracy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Constitution is the supreme law that must be protected.
- Democracy is at risk from arrogance and nepotism.
- Commemorating past struggles helps to inspire future vigilance.
- It is important to recognize and honor the sacrifices made for democracy.
- Political accountability is necessary for genuine democratic practice.
Chandigarh, June 25 (NationPress) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini remarked that 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' serves as a poignant reminder that the arrogance of power and nepotism pose significant threats to democracy.
He asserted that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, and it is our paramount duty to uphold and protect it. Any actions that compromise its core principles cannot and must not be overlooked.
Speaking to the media in Karnal on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, CM Saini honored the courageous individuals who opposed dictatorship during this period, acknowledging their suffering and resilience in the face of imprisonment and torture.
“Today, I pay tribute to all those heroes who stood for democracy,” he stated.
CM Saini highlighted, “On June 25, 1975, the essence of the Constitution was under siege with the declaration of Emergency, jeopardizing our democratic values. While it was portrayed as a response to an internal crisis, the true motive was a personal quest for power.”
“For a duration of 21 months, the country faced dictatorship. Numerous advocates of democracy were incarcerated and subjected to torture,” he added.
He explained that the purpose of commemorating 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' is to remind all citizens, particularly the youth, about the significance of democracy and to keep them vigilant in protecting our democratic framework.
He further remarked that the Emergency represented not only a constitutional crisis but also an attack on democratic processes that ensure freedom of expression, equality, and justice.
This period also embodied a challenge to the ideals of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who championed the slogan 'One Nation, One Constitution' and sacrificed his life for this principle.
The Chief Minister noted that the people of Haryana demonstrated remarkable strength during this struggle, with many sacrificing everything to safeguard democracy.
He criticized those who superficially embrace the Constitution, labeling it as mere hypocrisy.
“These individuals assert that the Constitution, crafted by Baba Saheb Ambedkar, is under threat. However, there was a time when their party blatantly dismantled the Constitution in secrecy,” he stated.
He added that those whose political lineage imposed dictatorship, suppressed the press, jailed leaders, and enforced forced sterilizations cannot genuinely claim to be defenders of the Constitution and democracy today.
“Before delivering speeches about democracy, they must acknowledge their past errors, accept responsibility for undermining democracy, and apologize to the nation,” the Chief Minister concluded.