Exactly 49 years ago, on June 25, 1975, the government led by Indira Gandhi imposed an emergency in the country. During this period, even fundamental rights of citizens were seized. Although not the first time an emergency was declared in the country, the reasons for and circumstances under which it was announced led to nationwide turmoil. There were two previous emergencies as well, but each had solid justifications. Let's explore when and why emergencies were proclaimed in the past.
Source: aajtak
How and When is an Emergency Declared?
Under Article 352 of the Indian Constitution, the President is granted the authority to declare a national emergency. A written recommendation from the Prime Minister-headed Cabinet is required to make such a declaration. It results in the suspension of all fundamental rights of the citizens. An emergency can be proclaimed when the entire nation or specific states face severe crises like famine, foreign invasion, internal administrative disorder, or instability, consequently transferring all political and administrative powers to the President's control. India has experienced three national emergencies to date, declared under Article 352 in the years 1962, 1971, and 1975.
Source: aajtak
The 1962 Emergency
The first emergency spanned from October 26, 1962, to January 10, 1968. This period encompassed the Indo-China war. The emergency was declared at the time because 'India's security' was deemed threatened by 'external invasion.' Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister during this grave hour.
Source: aajtak
The 1971 Emergency
The second instance occurred from December 3 to December 17, 1971, during the India-Pakistan war. Similarly to the first, this emergency was declared in response to perceived threats to the nation's security. V. V. Giri served as the President at that time.
Source: aajtak
Emergency of 1975
The third emergency was declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, citing internal instability as the main reason. It came following a recommendation from her Cabinet to the then President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, lasting until March 21, 1977.
Source: aajtak
Why the Third Emergency Remains Controversial?
The third emergency has been repeatedly criticized as an undemocratic act by political parties, attacking both the Indira administration and the Congress Party. The circumstances and the manner in which the emergency was proclaimed are seriously questioned. The Indira government's decision has been labeled as dictatorial, leading to widespread opposition and protests across the country.
The 1975 emergency was announced following a decision by the Allahabad High Court, which on June 12, 1975, invalidated Indira Gandhi's election, banning her from electoral participation for the subsequent six years. This spurred demands for her resignation and ignited nationwide protests. The Supreme Court upheld the High Court's ruling, which led to the declaration of the emergency.
