‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ observed across North east

Asserting that the “dark days of Emergency” should not be forgotten, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday lashed out at the Congress, stating that those who had “strangled the Constitution are today trying to become its protector”.
He made a post on X on the occasion of ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ (the day on which Constitution was murdered) to commemorate the imposition of the nearly two-year-long Emergency by former prime minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975.
“As we mark 50 years of this brutal episode, India pays tribute to the brave men and women who stood firm to uphold the Constitution during those dark times,” Sarma said in the post.
“It was solely due to their courageous efforts and valiant sacrifices that the Congress party was brought to its knees — marking the end of a shameful chapter in our history,” he added.
Sarma said those who had “strangled the Constitution are today becoming its protectors”.
“25 June ~ reminds us of the darkest chapter of Indian democracy. Never forget the dark days of the #Emergency,” he added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah had last year announced that the Modi government would observe June 25 as the ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ to commemorate the “massive contributions” of those who endured “inhuman pain” during the period.
Emergency a ‘dark chapter’ in democracy: Khandu
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday underscored the importance of drawing lessons from the past and reaffirming the collective commitment to uphold the Constitution.
Leading the observance of ‘Samvidhan Hatya’ Diwas in the border district of Tawang, Khandu called upon the people to safeguard civil liberties and preserve the democratic values that define the nation.
He said the day serves as a reminder of the need to protect the Constitution and strengthen democratic principles.
“Let us draw lessons from the past and reaffirm our commitment to protect the Constitution, safeguard civil liberties, and preserve the democratic values that define our great nation,” the chief minister said in a post on X.
The day marks the anniversary of the imposition of Emergency in 1975, widely regarded as one of the most challenging and darkest chapters in India’s democratic history.
The programme was jointly organised by the BJP Tawang district unit and the district administration to reflect on the significance of constitutional integrity and democratic ethos.
State BJP president Kaling Moyong, MLAs Tsering Lhamu (Lungla) and Namgey Tsering (Tawang), former MLA Tsering Tashi, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Leki Gombu, APSCW Chairperson Yalem Taga Burang, Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, and Superintendent of Police D W Thongon were among those present, an official communique said.
Earlier in the day, a peaceful rally was held from the Giant Buddha statue to the DC Office. The march witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, NCC cadets, NSS volunteers of Dorjee Khandu Government College, and members of the public, all walking in solidarity with the spirit of constitutional democracy.
During the event, the chief minister also felicitated students who had won various school-level competitions, drawing, painting, essay writing, and speech, organised to mark the occasion.
Samvidhan Hatya Diwas observed across Manipur districts
With a call to take a pledge to never let democracy be held hostage, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Manipur Pradesh observed “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas – 50 Years of Emergency” at its head office, Thambal Shanglen, in Imphal on Wednesday.
The event was organized to commemorate the imposition of Emergency in the country in 1975 by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. BJP Manipur Pradesh president A Sarda Devi, former chief minister N Biren Singh, some MLAs, veteran leaders of the party were among others who attended the event. Honouring seven veterans from Manipur who were arrested and jailed for protesting against the imposition of the Emergency was the main highlight of the event.
The seven veterans were Laishram Jatra Singh of SEVA Bharati, Huirem Gunindro Singh, Thounaojam Iboton Singh, Kangla Shangomshang, Sh Tarunkumar Sharma, Moirangthem Gyanendro Singh, Mutum Gourahari, and Khwairakpam Joy Singh.
“The Emergency reminds us that democracy is not just a system, but a sacred responsibility,” former chief minister and state BJP leader N Biren Singh wrote on the X after the event.
The former chief minister called on to take a pledge to never let democracy be held hostage and that the “Emergency” was a ruthless assault on the constitution.
“On this day, 25th June, we mark 50 years since one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history, the Emergency of 1975.”
“Imposed by the then Congress government, the Emergency was a ruthless assault on our Constitution, on civil liberties, on press freedom, and on the very soul of democracy. Censorship ruled the day, and fear ruled the night” Singh said.
Today, let us take a pledge to never let democracy be held hostage. Never again shall India bend to tyranny,” he added.
(Correspondent)
Emergency reminder democracy should not be taken for granted: Sikkim CM
Gangtok, Jun 25 (PTI): Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Wednesday said that the imposition of Emergency 50 years ago is a reminder to future generations that democracy must never be taken for granted.
He was addressing a function organised at Manan Kendra here to observe ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ (the day on which the Constitution was murdered) marking the imposition of Emergency by former prime minister Indira Gandhi on this day in 1975.
“This day (June 25) serves as a reminder to future generations that democracy must never be taken for granted. It requires constant vigilance, active participation, and respect for constitutional values,” Tamang said. The Constitution is a proud symbol of India’s identity guaranteeing justice, liberty, and equality to every citizen, he said. “The Constitution is a legal document and the foundation of our democracy which empowers the people and holds the state accountable,” the chief minister said.
“On the occasion, we pay heartfelt tribute to the brave leaders and citizens who resisted the Emergency, many of whom endured imprisonment and persecution. Their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire us,” he said.
Tamang urged all to reaffirm their commitment to democratic ideals and continue protecting the values enshrined in our Constitution.
Earlier in the day, Tamang, in a social media post, said that the imposition of the Emergency 50 years ago was a challenging chapter in the nation’s history when the principles enshrined in the Constitution were severely tested.