Emergency: The Dark Age of Indian democracy
This article provides a historical overview of the 1975-1977 Emergency period in India, initiated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It details the political context, legal challenges, and the subsequent suspension of civil liberties.
Why it matters
Understanding this period is essential for grasping the evolution of Indian democracy and the constitutional safeguards established to prevent future authoritarian overreach.
O ne of the turning points of Indian politics, the Emergency was set in motion by the Indira Gandhi government on June 25, 1975 and remained in place for 21 months till its withdrawal on March 21, 1977. The order gave Indira Gandhi, India’s first woman Prime Minister, the authority to rule by decree and saw the large-scale curbing of civil liberties.
The article provides a historical account based on documented political events and legal history.
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