India’s democracy survived because people resisted Emergency: Fadnavis

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said India’s democracy survived because of the struggle of the people who opposed the imposition of the Emergency, which led to the suspension of fundamental rights of citizens.

Calling the Emergency a dark chapter when the Constitution, democracy and several institutions were trampled upon, he said it should never be forgotten.

“The morale of political activists who were imprisoned was always high, and they fought tooth and nail to protect democracy in the country. They opposed the imposition of the Emergency and suspension of fundamental rights of citizens,” said Fadnavis.

He was speaking at an event to mark the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency by the late former prime minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975.

The 21-month period saw the suspension of civil liberties, and arrest of opposition leaders and the suppression of press freedom.

“Today is a day to pay tribute to those who resisted the Emergency and fought to safeguard democracy,” Fadnavis added.