On 25 June 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah released the book “The Emergency Diaries – Years that Forged a Leader”, which explores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role during the Emergency as a young RSS Pracharak.
The book is divided into five chapters and examines how the 1975–77 Emergency shaped Modi’s understanding of state power, political mobilization, and the importance of a healthy opposition.
It presents the Emergency as a critical turning point in India’s democratic journey, highlighting the threat to civil liberties and institutional independence under a centralized and dynastic rule.
The book quotes Modi’s reflections, emphasizing:
- The spirit of democracy among Indians
- The long struggle of pro-democracy activists during the Emergency
- The importance of preserving constitutional rights and democratic values
It concludes that remembering the Emergency is essential as a reminder of the need to safeguard democracy and resist any erosion of constitutional freedoms.
