Our duty to remind the new generations of the Emergency: BJP MP
Srinagar, June 25 (UNI) BJP's Rajya Sabha member from Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Ali Khatana today said that the Emergency was a direct attack on the soul of democracy and it was their duty to remind the new generations of this "betrayal" of constitutional governance.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Khatana recalled the imposition of the Emergency in 1975 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which lasted for 21 months and saw a 'blatant suspension of civil liberties, press freedom, and democratic rights.'
He termed it as the 'blackest period in independent India' and paid tribute to all those who resisted authoritarian rule and sacrificed their freedom to uphold the Constitution and democratic values.
"The Emergency was a direct attack on the soul of our democracy. It is our duty to remind the new generations of this betrayal of constitutional governance," he said.
"Today, we rededicate ourselves to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of our citizens, as envisioned by our Constitution makers."
MP Khatana emphasised the role of BJP as the true guardian of democracy, tracing its ideological lineage to the Jana Sangh, which was at the forefront of the resistance movement during the Emergency.
He also lauded the sacrifices made by thousands of party workers, social activists, and opposition leaders who were jailed, tortured, and silenced during this period.
He further added that the observance of Emergency Day is not just an act of remembrance but also a warning against any future attempts to undermine democracy.
Earlier BJP J&K organised a solemn programme in Srinagar on the 50 years after the Emergency.
The event, organised by the BJP Senior Leader, DDC Srinagar Er. Aijaz Hussain, along with the BJP Lal Chowk Constituency, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of party members, karyakartas, and local leaders. Khatana was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
Ashok Koul, BJP General Secretary (Organisation) J&K along with several leaders were also present on the occasion.
Koul in his address said, BJP's commitment to protect the rights of citizens and to continue the mission of strengthening democracy across all corners of the nation, including Jammu & Kashmir.
'Today we remember those who stood up against injustice during the Emergency. We must ensure that such an undemocratic move is never repeated in the history of our nation, Koul added. UNI MJR SSP
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