Government to Observe June 25 as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas,’ Says Congress Leader Pramod Tiwari

The decision by the government to observe June 25, the day the Emergency was declared in 1975, as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ has sparked intense political debate. Congress leader Pramod Tiwari has sharply criticized the move, asserting that since the Modi government came to power, the Constitution is being undermined daily. He went further to label Prime Minister Modi’s tenure as the ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Yug’ or ‘Era of Constitutional Murder.’

Historical Context of June 25

June 25, 1975, is a significant date in Indian history. It marks the day when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency, citing internal disturbances. This period, lasting until March 21, 1977, saw severe restrictions on civil liberties, censorship of the press, and the arrest of political opponents. The Emergency is often remembered as a dark period in India’s democratic history, and its declaration has been a point of contention in Indian politics for decades.

Government’s Justification

The government’s decision to commemorate this day as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ (Constitution Murder Day) is intended to remind the nation of the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of safeguarding democratic values. Proponents argue that it serves as a poignant reminder of the need to remain vigilant against any actions that could undermine the Constitution and democratic institutions.

Pramod Tiwari’s response encapsulates the Congress party’s vehement opposition to the government’s narrative. He stated, “Since the day Modi government has come to power, the Constitution is being murdered every day.” Tiwari’s comment reflects a broader critique from opposition parties, who accuse the current government of eroding democratic norms and centralizing power.

Tiwari’s labeling of Modi’s tenure as the ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Yug’ underscores the severity of his accusation. This criticism is part of a larger narrative that alleges the government has systematically weakened institutions that are supposed to act as checks and balances in a democracy, such as the judiciary, media, and civil society.

This political clash over the observance of June 25 highlights the deep-seated divisions in Indian politics. For the ruling party, marking this day serves as a stark reminder of the perils of unchecked executive power. For the opposition, it is a tactic to deflect attention from what they perceive as current threats to the Constitution.

The public reaction to this announcement has been mixed. Supporters of the government view it as a necessary reminder of past transgressions and a call to protect democratic values. Critics, however, see it as a politicized move aimed at discrediting a rival party by dredging up historical events while ignoring contemporary issues.

The decision to observe June 25 as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ and the ensuing reactions highlight the ongoing struggle over the interpretation and safeguarding of democratic principles in India. As the country continues to navigate its political landscape, the debate over constitutional integrity and historical memory will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of public discourse.