Echoes of History: The Emergency Era Remembered

Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena compared the imposition of the Emergency in India to the autocratic eras of the Sultanate, Mughal, and British rulers. At an event marking the Emergency's 50th anniversary, he emphasized the importance of understanding India's constitutional soul and criticized leaders for failing to protect democracy.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena likened the Emergency in India to the autocratic reigns of the Sultanate, Mughal, and British eras. Speaking at Thyagraj Stadium during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Emergency's imposition, Saxena emphasized the need to grasp the essence of India's Constitution rather than merely brandishing it.

The Lieutenant Governor criticized the era as a time when democracy and civil rights were oppressed and described it as an act of 'constitutional murder.' He suggested that if political leaders had adhered to their democratic duties, the Emergency could have been avoided.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also attended the event. Gupta highlighted the curtailment of rights and press freedom during that period, urging a collective vow to protect the Constitution and prevent future threats to democracy.

(With inputs from agencies.)