Digvijaya Singh Criticizes Emergency Anniversary: A Political Agenda or Historical Reflection?

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has voiced strong opposition to the Central government's decision to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Emergency. Singh argued that it is unprecedented for a central government to adopt its political agenda as the government's formal directive, criticizing officials for instructing states to hold programs denouncing the Emergency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 123rd episode of his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address on Sunday, described the Emergency as one of the darkest periods in India's democratic history, labeling it 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas.' Modi's address included archival audio from former Prime Ministers, condemning the time as one of constitutional violations and the oppression of civil liberties.

Modi emphasized the significance of remembering those who stood against the Emergency, asserting that the period should inspire continued vigilance in protecting democratic principles. Citing Morarji Desai, Modi criticized the motivations behind the Emergency's imposition and highlighted the widespread detentions and suppression of press freedom under MISA.

(With inputs from agencies.)