New Delhi:
In a scathing critique, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the Congress government for its draconian measures and suppression of freedom during the Emergency period in India. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Modi highlighted the egregious actions taken by the Congress, which he argued undermined the very spirit of the Constitution.
The Emergency, imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, and lasting until March 21, 1977, remains a dark chapter in India’s democratic history. Modi emphasized how this period was marked by the blatant suppression of freedom of speech, the targeting of artists and journalists, and the blatant disregard for democratic principles.
Modi slammed the Congress government for its actions during the Emergency, citing the example of Dev Anand, whose films were banned on Akashvani for his refusal to support the Emergency. This was not an isolated incident; several prominent figures, including actor Balraj Sahni and Hridaynath Mangeshkar, the brother of the late singer Lata Mangeshkar, faced similar repercussions for their opposition. Hridaynath Mangeshkar was even barred from Akashvani for attempting to broadcast a poem on Veer Savarkar.
The press was also a target, with the Congress government imposing taxes to suppress dissent. This move was part of a broader strategy to muzzle any form of opposition, reflecting a complete lack of respect for the Constitution and democratic freedoms.
Modi extended his criticism to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who jailed renowned poet and lyricist Majrooh Sultanpuri for singing a song in support of a workers’ strike in Mumbai. This incident, Modi argued, was an early sign of the Congress’s propensity to suppress dissent and freedom of expression.
The legendary singer Kishore Kumar was another victim of this suppression, with his songs banned from Akashvani for his refusal to sing in praise of the Congress. George Fernandes, a prominent leader, was among those jailed during the Emergency, further illustrating the widespread crackdown on opposition.
Modi drew a stark contrast between the Congress era and the current NDA-led government, emphasizing the latter’s commitment to respecting the vision of the Constituent Assembly. He stated that the current government is dedicated to aligning its policies with the aspirations and feelings of the Constitution makers, a stark departure from the Congress’s actions during the Emergency.
Accusing the Congress of destroying the spirit of the Constitution makers, Modi pointed out that the party’s actions were a clear betrayal of the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution. He argued that the Congress’s disregard for these principles was evident even in the early years of Independence, when they amended the Constitution without respecting the vision of its makers.
In conclusion, Modi’s address underscored the critical importance of upholding democratic values and the Constitution, highlighting the stark differences between the Congress’s past actions and the current government’s commitment to these principles.
