50 Years Since Emergency: How The Israel-Arab War Shook Indira Gandhi's Hold On Power
During the Yom Kippur War, India's dependence on oil imports led to a severe economic crisis, triggering rampant inflation and a sharp rise in prices of essential commodities
On June 25, 1975, India entered a controversial phase in its democratic journey as the government declared a state of Emergency, triggering sweeping changes to its political and constitutional framework. Fifty years later, the move remains a subject of debate and reflection. What led a democratically elected Prime Minister to impose such extraordinary measures on the country's institutions and civil liberties continues to prompt critical examination.
According to political experts, the central figure in this period was then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, whose hold on power faced persistent challenges amid the political turbulence of the 1970s.
Many political commentators believe the roots of the Emergency can be traced back to 1973, with the outbreak of the Yom Kippur War between Israel and the Arab nations. Although this conflict was geographically distant from India, its repercussions were felt deeply as oil prices surged globally. India, heavily reliant on oil imports, plunged into an economic crisis, causing rampant inflation and skyrocketing prices of essential commodities. Everyday items, including petrol, bus fares, and electricity rates, became unaffordable.
Student Movements In Gujarat And Bihar
Economic discontent first erupted in Gujarat with the 'Nav Nirman Movement' in January 1974, where students took to the streets of Ahmedabad protesting against inflation, corruption, and chaos. The movement gained momentum across the state, eventually leading to the resignation of Gujarat Chief Minister Chimanbhai Patel.
Simultaneously, the student unrest spread to Bihar, where increased college fees and bus fares ignited existing frustrations with inflation. On March 18, 1974, thousands of students marched in Patna from Patna Science College to the Assembly, resulting in violent clashes and an atmosphere of tension.
Was JP's 'Total Revolution' The Turning Point Before The Emergency?
The public discontent found direction and leadership under Jayaprakash Narayan (JP), a senior freedom fighter, Gandhian thinker, and moral figure, who on June 5, 1974, called for a 'Total Revolution' from Patna's Gandhi Maidan. JP's movement transcended issues of inflation and corruption, becoming a significant socio-political campaign advocating for radical reforms in education, administration, and politics. This movement united youth, students, intellectuals, and opposition parties alike.
Did The Court Verdict Push Indira Gandhi To Declare Emergency?
The movement's impact resonated nationwide, and on June 12, 1975, the Allahabad High Court invalidated Indira Gandhi's election from Rae Bareilly, citing corrupt practices and disqualifying her from contesting elections for six years.
This legal blow amplified opposition voices, jeopardising Indira Gandhi's political position. In response, JP urged the army and police to disobey unlawful orders, prompting Indira Gandhi to declare an Emergency on the night of June 25.
According to political commentators, the Emergency was not merely a political manoeuvre but a consequence of the economic, social, and global upheavals of the period.
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