Tripura CM Highlights 1975 Emergency's Dark Legacy in Mock Parliament

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha condemned the 1975 Emergency, labeling it a 'condition of horror' that violated constitutional values. Citing press censorship and unwarranted arrests, he called for defending the Constitution. Saha also shared personal experiences from the era at a BJP event.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has pointed to the 1975 Emergency as a period of widespread constitutional violations, describing it as a 'condition of horror' for the state. He highlighted the pressing need to uphold democratic values during his address at a mock parliament event organized by BJP's women's wing.

The Emergency, which lasted from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, under then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, saw rampant press censorship, arbitrary arrests, and suppression of dissent across academic, political, and civil arenas. To honor those who suffered during this period, the BJP-led central government has chosen to observe June 25 as 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas'.

Recalling personal experiences, Saha narrated how drama scripts required governmental approval and recounted being stranded for three days due to a nationwide strike. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's abolition of 'Triple Talaq' as a measure to protect women's rights and urged continuous defense of the Constitution.

(With inputs from agencies.)