Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas (Constitution Murder Day) is observed on 25th June to commemorate one of the most controversial and defining moments in Indian democratic history—the proclamation of the Emergency in 1975. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the period when constitutional rights were suspended, civil liberties were curtailed, and democratic institutions were undermined.
Historical Context
On June 25, 1975, then-President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, on the advice of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, declared a National Emergency under Article 352 of the Constitution, citing internal disturbances. This marked the beginning of a 21-month period during which:
- Fundamental rights under Article 19 were suspended.
- Press censorship was imposed, and the Press Council of India was abolished.
- Opposition leaders and activists were jailed without trial.
- Judicial scrutiny of the Prime Minister’s election and Emergency declaration was barred through constitutional amendments.
Significance of the Day
Declared officially in 2024, Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas is intended to:
- Pay tribute to those who suffered and resisted during the Emergency.
- Educate citizens about the importance of constitutional safeguards and democratic values.
- Reaffirm commitment to never allow such authoritarian overreach again.
