India Reflects: 50 Years Since Dark Chapter of Emergency

Union Home Minister Amit Shah marked the 50th anniversary of the Emergency era by honoring Sumita Arya, a survivor, with a copy of the Indian Constitution. This event at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya highlighted the enduring struggles of those who lived through what is considered a dark chapter of Indian democracy.

Sumita Arya, who was incarcerated with her children and family during the Emergency, recalled the oppressive times. She stated that during this period democracy was under threat and people were voiceless against the autocratic rule. Indira Gandhi's decision to fill jails amid no external threats marked a grim period, leaving her family of 11 imprisoned without recourse.

Amit Shah emphasized the importance of remembering national events like the Emergency. He noted that the first non-Congress government emerged from elections post-Emergency, symbolizing India's resistance to dictatorship. Shah declared June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas to remind the nation of the dangers when leadership turns authoritarian.

(With inputs from agencies.)