By The Modi government has officially designated June 25 as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas,’ to commemorate the Emergency declared in 1975. This new day is part of the administration’s broader strategy to highlight key historical events and figures through dedicated commemorative days.
Understanding the Emergency: Historical Context
June 25, 1975, is remembered as the day Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency, which led to a significant erosion of democratic freedoms and civil liberties. The new commemorative day, Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas, aims to keep the memory of this period alive and emphasize the importance of protecting democratic values.
Modi Government’s Commemorative Day Trend
Since 2014, the Modi administration has introduced various commemorative days, including:
- Good Governance Day: Observed on December 25 to honor Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s legacy in governance.
- Parakram Diwas: Celebrated on January 23 to recognize the contributions of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
- International Yoga Day: Held on June 21 to promote global awareness and practice of yoga.
- Handloom Day: Marked on August 7 to celebrate India’s traditional handloom industry.
- Ayushman Bharat Diwas: Observed on April 30 to highlight the government’s health insurance scheme.
- Sikh Martyrs’ Day: Acknowledges the sacrifices made by Sikh martyrs throughout history.
Public and Political Reactions
The announcement of Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas has elicited a range of responses. Supporters view it as a necessary acknowledgment of a significant historical event and a means to promote democratic values. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the day may be used to serve political purposes rather than purely historical or educational ones.
A New Day for Reflection
The introduction of Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas provides an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the Emergency’s impact and reaffirm the commitment to democratic principles. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the constitutional rights and freedoms that form the foundation of India’s democracy.
