Nagaland joined the rest of the country in observing “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas” (Constitution Murder Day) on June 25, marking 50 years since the imposition of Emergency in 1975. Programmes were held across various district headquarters to remember those who stood against the suppression of democratic rights.
DIMAPUR
A district-level programme was held at the DC’s Conference Hall. Keynote speaker, Dr. Amongla N. Jamir, associate professor, Department of Political Science, Dimapur Government College, said the 1975 Emergency marked a major turning point in India’s constitutional history.
She spoke on how civil liberties were curtailed, press freedom was restricted, and several political leaders including Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L.K. Advani, and George Fernandes were jailed. Dr. Amongla noted that while earlier emergencies were declared during wars, the 1975 Emergency was not due to war, crisis, or unrest, but resulted from authoritarian decisions and political developments including bank nationalization and the abolition of royal privileges.
She highlighted how constitutional amendments were used for political gain, causing friction between the judiciary and the government. Though India had won the 1971 war, she said the Emergency raised questions on democratic governance, claiming it led to arrogance within the leadership.
Dr. Amongla said the 1977 general election, where Congress was voted out, reflected public disapproval. Drawing parallels to later events, she mentioned Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s return after the Kargil War and Narendra Modi’s re-election following anti-terror operations.
Recalling local experiences, she said the Emergency brought fear in Nagaland, with army vehicles and a tense atmosphere leaving lasting impressions. She concluded that democracy faces threats daily, often ignored due to public desensitisation, and warned that a lack of opposition can create a dangerous illusion of normalcy.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by EAC Dimapur Imliwabang Aier. ADC Dimapur Zakabo V. Rotokha delivered the welcome address. DPRO Dimapur led the national anthem, while a patriotic song was presented by Ruangriu R. Panmei, a student of Livingstone Foundation International. The vote of thanks was delivered by SDO (C) Dimapur Wiridin.
MELURI
At Meluri, the programme was held at DBs Court with keynote address by deputy commissioner K. Mhathung Tsanglao.
A short video on the Emergency was screened. The event was chaired by EAC Pipfusa and vote of thanks was proposed by SDO (C) Sakuchingmak.
TUENSANG
TUENSANG: At Tuensang, deputy commissioner Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa stated that the day honours those who resisted injustice during the Emergency. Speeches were also delivered by EAC (P) Er. Vinoh Swu and ARO Khumeng T., with vote of thanks by SDO (C) Kihomong Yimchunger.
KOHIMA
Kohima District Administration and District Cultural Office held a programme at the DC Conference Hall. Keynote speaker, Dr. Ketoukhrieü of Kohima College, reflected on the legal and ethical impact of the Emergency and the dangers of authoritarian tendencies.
She also highlighted how the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution attempted to shift the balance of power and dilute individual rights, an act many scholars interpret as an effort to “constitutionalize authoritarianism.”
“This is not merely about looking back, but about looking within,” she said. “The Emergency teaches us that democracy is not self-sustaining. It demands vigilance, courage, and responsibility from every citizen. It is not just a legal system, but a moral framework that upholds liberty, justice, and dignity.”
ADC Kohima Ruopfükuotuo Noudi delivered the welcome address. A patriotic performance by Benhi Himb was followed by a vote of thanks by district cultural officer Haichenlo Kath.
ZUNHEBOTO
The event was held at the DC Conference Hall. Keynote speaker, assistant professor Nisana T. Zhimo, stressed the importance of remembering the occasion. Major Praveen Salotra of 11 AR Zunheboto addressed the gathering, while a patriotic song was performed by the Cornerstone Guides. The programme was chaired by EAC (P) Zuchibemo Ezungan.
MOKOKCHUNG
The district administration and district culture office held a programme at the DC’s Conference Hall. Fazl Ali College associate professor Bendangsenla delivered the keynote address. The programme was chaired by district cultural officer Imyaba Ao, with short speech by IAS probationer Ajay Moktan and vote of thanks by EAC (P) Kato Aomi. All programmes reflected on the significance of the Emergency and reaffirmed commitment to safeguarding democratic values.