Key Highlights:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Emergency “an event that will never be forgotten” and one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history.
- The Union Cabinet observed two minutes of silence in memory of those who fought against the suspension of democratic rights.
- A resolution was passed to honour the sacrifices of citizens, leaders, and activists who defended the Constitution during the Emergency.
- The period is being marked as “Samvidhan Hatya Divas” (Constitution Murder Day) by the government in 2025.
- The PM noted that the Constitution was violated, fundamental rights were suspended, press freedom curbed, and thousands were jailed during the Emergency.
- He also highlighted the misuse of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment and the targeting of the poor and marginalised during that period.
- Citizens from diverse ideologies and backgrounds united to resist authoritarianism and uphold democratic values.
About the 1975 Emergency:
- Declared on June 25, 1975, under Article 352, citing “internal disturbance”.
- Fundamental rights were curtailed, censorship imposed, and political opponents jailed.
- It lasted 21 months until March 1977, and remains a critical moment in India’s constitutional and political history.
Why in News?
On June 25, 2025, the Government of India commemorated the 50th anniversary of the declaration of Emergency in 1975 under the Indira Gandhi government, calling it a reminder to safeguard democracy.

