Union Home Minister Amit Shah commemorated the 50th anniversary of India’s 1975 Emergency by releasing a new book titled “The Emergency Diaries.” The book sheds light on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s early efforts to protect democracy during that challenging period.
Why in News?
- June 25, 2025, marked the 50th anniversary of India’s 1975 Emergency.
- Home Minister Amit Shah released the book ‘The Emergency Diaries’.
- The book focuses on PM Modi’s role as a young RSS Pracharak during the Emergency.
About the Book
- Title: The Emergency Diaries
- Released by: Amit Shah, Union Home Minister
- Focus: PM Narendra Modi’s role during the Emergency as a young RSS Pracharak
Sources Used
- First-person anecdotes from Modi’s associates
- Archival material and historical documents
Objectives and Significance
- To commemorate the sacrifices of those who resisted authoritarianism.
- To educate younger generations about the importance of democratic safeguards.
- To highlight PM Modi’s ideological foundation and democratic values.
- To present a personal account of India’s darkest democratic phase.
Background – What Was the Emergency?
- Declared on: June 25, 1975, by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
- Duration: 21 months (till March 21, 1977)
Key Characteristics
- Suspension of civil liberties
- Censorship of media
- Mass arrests of opposition leaders
- Forced sterilizations and curfews
- Purpose: Officially for national security, widely believed to be a means for retaining power
Key Statements from Leaders
Amit Shah
- “India was like a prison during that time.”
- Highlighted journalist arrests, leader imprisonments, and banned films/songs.
PM Modi
- Called the Emergency a “learning experience”.
- Emphasized the importance of standing against authoritarianism.
Summary/Static Details
- Why in the news? The Emergency Diaries book Released by Amit Shah
- Released By: Amit Shah, Union Home Minister
- Occasion: 50th Anniversary of Emergency (1975–2025)
- Focus: PM Modi’s anti-Emergency activism and democratic values
- Significance: Reminder of democratic fragility and Modi’s ideological journey
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Understanding the significance of historical events like the 1975 Emergency.
- Appreciating the role of individuals in safeguarding democratic values.
- Importance of learning from past challenges to strengthen democratic resilience.
