Jammu, June 25, 2025 – On the occasion of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the 1975 Emergency Exhibition at the Convention Centre, Jammu, marking the 50th anniversary of one of the darkest periods in India’s democratic history. The event served as a solemn reminder of the Emergency imposed on June 25, 1975, by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which Sinha described as the “most inhuman act” and a “murder of the Constitution.”
Addressing the gathering, LG Sinha emphasized the profound impact of the 1975 Emergency, stating, “In that darkest period in India’s democratic history, the soul of the country was crushed, civil liberties were attacked, constitutional safeguards were violated, and dreams of nation-building were buried.” He paid tribute to millions of Satyagrahis who fought to revive democracy and safeguard constitutional values during the 21-month period of authoritarian rule.
The exhibition aims to educate the younger generation about the Emergency era, highlighting the suspension of fundamental rights, widespread censorship, and detention of opposition leaders. Sinha underscored the importance of commemorating the sacrifices of those who resisted the oppressive regime, urging citizens to honor the victims and resolve to strengthen India’s democratic foundations.
“I consider the Emergency to be the most inhuman act of Indian democratic history,” Sinha reiterated, calling for a renewed commitment to constitutional morality to prevent future threats to democracy. The event saw the presence of prominent figures, including former Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta, MLA Arvind Gupta, Principal Secretary of Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, and Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, alongside senior officials and citizens.
The 1975 Emergency Exhibition is part of nationwide efforts to reflect on the period from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, when India faced unprecedented challenges to its democratic ethos. LG Sinha’s remarks echoed the sentiment of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, a day dedicated to remembering the “murder of democracy” and reinforcing the nation’s resolve to uphold civil liberties and constitutional values.
As India marks 50 years since the Emergency, the exhibition serves as a powerful call to action to deepen the roots of democracy and work tirelessly for the nation’s progress.
