Echoes of a Dark Era: India's Sterilisation Legacy and Its Impact on Reproductive Rights

As India marks a somber milestone, the 50th anniversary of the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi in 1975, the aftershocks of mass sterilisation campaigns still ripple through the nation. During this turbulent period, families across rural areas felt forced to comply with governmental mandates, as fear and coercion overrode personal choice.

In 1976 alone, a staggering eight million sterilisations were conducted, many under duress. The impact was profound, with men going into hiding and slogans decrying the forced procedures proliferating across the country. Urban areas like Delhi's Turkman Gate became epicenters of violence and unrest as residents resisted forced measures.

Today, India's approach to family planning has evolved significantly. The focus has shifted from coercive practices to safeguarding reproductive rights, emphasizing voluntary participation, and empowering women. Experts now stress the importance of education and healthcare access as keys to achieving population stability and harnessing India's demographic dividend.

(With inputs from agencies.)