Modi targets Congress: 1975-77 Emergency was a “dark period”
NEW DELHI/ MUMBAI : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday slammed the Congress on the 43rd anniversary of imposition of Emergency, saying India was “turned into a jail for the selfish personal interests” of the Gandhi family.
The 1975-77 Emergency was a “dark period” that the nation could never forget and called for making democracy stronger by “writing, debating, deliberating, and questioning” its vital aspects.
“India remembers the Emergency as a dark period during which every institution was subverted and an atmosphere of fear was created. Not only people but also ideas and artistic freedom were held hostage to power politics,” he tweeted.
Modi hailed the spirit of those citizens who firmly opposed the Emergency that came into force on June 25, 1975, leading to suspension of the fundamental rights. “I salute the courage of all those great women and men who steadfastly resisted the Emergency, which was imposed 43 years ago. Their struggles ensured people power prevailed over authoritarianism and the stifling of civil liberties,” he added.
Modi says “India remembers the Emergency as a dark period during which every institution was subverted and an atmosphere of fear was created. Not only people but also ideas and artistic freedom were held hostage to power politics,” he tweeted earlier in the day.
“There has been no difference in the ideologies of Congress, since the time of Emergency till today. They challenge the verdicts of the Supreme Court at present. During Emergency the media had to surrender in front of Indira Gandhi because of the kind of environment they had created.
“They (Gandhi family) never imagined that corruption charge could be framed against them in court and they would have to seek bail, so now they are trying to scare the judiciary by bringing impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India,” says PM.
“Congress wanted to undo every parliamentary procedure. Even when JP Narayana protested and said that the court has ordered them (Congress) to leave the seat of power as their term was over, but they questioned JP. They put leaders behind bars to rule the country according to their wish. But these leaders pledged to do everything to save the democracy,” says PM Modi
“Singer-actor Kishore Kumar was blocked from radio because he had denied to perform for them (Congress). The movie ‘Aandhi’ was also banned by them because they were afraid,” says PM Modi adding that when Congress feels that power is slipping out of their hands, they try to create fear in the country.
“Such an environment was created that media had to surrender to the government. Addressing a meeting in Mumbai organised by the BJP to mark the Emergency anniversary, Mr. Modi said the day needed to be observed to re-dedicate oneself to the protection of the Constitution and democracy.
Mr. Modi accused the Congress of criticising electronic voting machines (EVMs) and the functioning of the Election Commission after they were reduced to 44 seats from 400 in the Lok Sabha. “They did not question the EVMs after the recent Karnataka elections,” he added.
He also criticised the Congress for moving an impeachment motion against the Supreme Court chief justice.“They never imagined that they can face corruption charges and be out on bail. Hence, the Congress decided to move an impeachment motion against the Chief Justice of India,” he said.
The government was committed to protecting the Constitution and upholding democratic values. “The Constitution is not just a book but a means to fulfil aspirations and wishes of the common man.”(With Inputs from Mumbai Bureau).
