Safeguarding liberty: Lessons from the Emergency

As we reflect on this darkest chapter in independent India's history, we must protect, at any cost, the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

On June 25, 1975, the then President of India, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, issued a proclamation in exercise of powers under Article 352(1) of the Constitution of India, declaring an Emergency on the ground of internal disturbances. A letter has been displayed in the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi, addressed by the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, to the President on June 25, 1975, making an earnest request to him to issue a proclamation under Article 352(1) of the Constitution on

Despite a slew of restrictions during the Emergency, acts of protest, though limited, emerged. (HT ARCHIVE)