Uttarakhand CM honours "democracy warriors" on Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, calls Emergency a "dark chapter"
Dehradun, June 25
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday paid tribute to those who opposed the 1975 Emergency during a program marking "Samvidhan Hatya Diwas" held in Dehradun.
The event served as a platform to honour "Democracy Warriors", individuals who were detained or fought against the suspension of civil liberties during that period.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the gravity of the Emergency era, framing it as a critical moment when democratic values were under siege.
"It was due to the sacrifice, courage and struggle of Democracy Warriors that democratic governance was eventually restored in the country. Their contribution remains a source of inspiration for present and future generations," Dhami said.
He credited the eventual restoration of democratic governance to the "sacrifice, courage, and struggle" of the individuals who resisted the government's actions at the time.
"The Emergency imposed in 1975 remains a dark chapter in the history of Indian democracy. In an attempt to retain power, the then government curtailed civil liberties, restricted press freedom and undermined the fundamental spirit of the Constitution," said Dhami.
Reflecting on the protection of rights, the Chief Minister stated that while attempts were made to suppress fundamental freedoms during the Emergency, the vigilance of the Indian citizenry eventually prevailed.
Dhami added that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression and democratic rights. "During the Emergency, attempts were made to suppress these fundamental rights, but the vigilant citizens of the country responded through democratic means and successfully restored democracy," he said.
He linked these historical lessons to the current administration's focus on "service, good governance, and welfare of the poor" under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing principles like "Nation First" and "Antyodaya."
Highlighting the present governance model, the Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre has achieved "new milestones in development" based on the principles of service, good governance and welfare of the poor. "The benefits of development are being extended to the last person in society under the guiding principles of Antyodaya, Nation First, and Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas," he said.
Dhami also noted that the state government is working for the welfare of Democracy Warriors. He informed that in 2023, their monthly honorarium was increased from ₹16,000 to ₹20,000, and special identity cards have been issued to Emergency detainees and their dependent spouses.
He emphasised the need to preserve their legacy, saying it is a collective responsibility to pass their contributions to younger generations. Democracy Warriors were also felicitated during the programme for their "sacrifices and invaluable contributions."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting perspective. While I respect the recognition of democracy warriors, I hope this day is not used for political point-scoring. The Emergency was indeed a dark chapter, but we must also ensure our current democratic institutions remain strong and independent.
Samvidhan Hatya Diwas is a meaningful way to remember the Emergency. I'm glad the honorarium for democracy warriors was increased to ₹20,000 - these brave souls deserve every bit of support. But we need to go beyond just words. Hope the government also ensures that constitutional safeguards are strengthened in practice, not just in speeches.
Finally someone is giving due recognition to those who stood up against tyranny! My history teacher in school barely mentioned the Emergency, it's time we teach our children about the fragility of democracy. Well done, CM Dhami! 👏
As someone who studied Indian history, I find it commendable that the state is honouring those who resisted authoritarianism. However, I hope this doesn't become a tool to distract from current issues like unemployment or inflation. Remembering the past is important, but so is addressing present challenges.
The Emergency was indeed a dark chapter - my father was a journalist who was detained for 18 months. He never spoke much about it, but I know the trauma remained. This recognition is long overdue. But let's be honest - are we truly vigilant about our freedoms today? The media landscape worries me sometimes.
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