Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Marking the anniversary of the Emergency imposed on June 25, 1975, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant described the period as one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history, emphasizing the need to safeguard constitutional values and democratic institutions.
Recalling the events of the Emergency, Dr. Sawant said that civil liberties were suspended, press freedom was curtailed, and several political leaders and citizens who stood up for democratic values were imprisoned.
“On this day in 1975, India witnessed one of the darkest chapters in its democratic history with the imposition of the Emergency. Since this ‘Black Day’, the period saw the suspension of civil liberties, curtailment of press freedom and imprisonment of political leaders and citizens who stood up for democratic values,” the Chief Minister said.
He stated that the anniversary serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of protecting the Constitution, fundamental rights, and the democratic institutions that form the foundation of the nation.
Dr. Sawant paid tribute to those who courageously resisted what he termed as tyranny during the Emergency and called upon citizens to remain committed to democratic principles.
“As we remember those who courageously resisted this tyranny, let us continue to uphold democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law,” he added.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came as leaders across the country observed June 25 as a reminder of the challenges faced by India’s democratic framework during the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977.
