- From Total Revolution to the Restoration of Democracy, Bihar Showed the Nation the Way

- Bihar Became the Torchbearer of Democracy During the Dark Days of the Emergency

Patna, June 24 (HS): Bihar's Minister for Art, Culture and Youth Affairs and Mines and Geology, Dr Pramod Kumar, on Wednesday said that preserving the legacy of the 1974 student-youth movement and the struggle against the Emergency and passing it on to future generations is one of the foremost responsibilities of the present generation.

Addressing a programme on “50 Years of the Emergency: The Bihar Movement and the Emergency” organised by Hindusthan Samachar Group at Mithapur Institutional Area in Patna, Dr Kumar said the Emergency was one of the most difficult tests faced by Indian democracy. However, the democratic consciousness of the people ultimately ensured the restoration of democratic governance.

Describing the Bihar Movement as more than just a chapter in history, he said it remains a living testimony to sacrifice, struggle, public participation and collective resolve in defence of democracy. He stressed the need to convey the true story and values of the movement to young people so that future generations understand the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions.

Dr Kumar said he had been entrusted with the responsibility of preserving important documents, records and historical materials related to the Bihar Movement and the Emergency. He expressed confidence that conserving these historical resources would play an important role in promoting the study of democratic history and raising awareness among future generations.

He said the Bihar Movement demonstrated that when democratic values and public interest are at stake, the organised strength of society can successfully confront even the most serious political challenges. Preserving the memories of that struggle, he added, is part of the nation's responsibility towards democracy.

Welcoming the gathering, Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna (CIMP) Director and Chief Administrative Officer Dr Kumud Kumar said the Emergency imposed on June 25, 1975, was among the most difficult and challenging periods in the history of Indian democracy. During that period, press freedom was affected, civil liberties were curtailed and attempts were made to suppress dissent. Nevertheless, public faith in democracy ultimately led to the restoration of democratic institutions.

Dr Kumud Kumar said any discussion on the struggle to protect democracy would remain incomplete without reference to Bihar. He noted that the call for “Total Revolution” under the leadership of Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan not only inspired Bihar but also provided direction to the entire country and laid the foundation for a nationwide democratic awakening.

He said the programme marking 50 years of the Emergency was not merely an occasion to remember the past, but also an opportunity to acquaint younger generations with democratic values, civil rights, freedom of expression and constitutional principles. He emphasised that democracy can remain strong only when citizens remain conscious of both their rights and responsibilities.

Describing Hindusthan Samachar as an important platform for national consciousness, constructive discourse and value-based journalism, Dr Kumud Kumar said the role of the media extends beyond disseminating information and includes strengthening public awareness and national values.

He added that education is not only about developing professional competence but also about nurturing responsible citizens committed to society and the nation. Historical episodes such as the Bihar Movement and the Emergency, he said, would continue to inspire young people to uphold democratic values and fulfil their social responsibilities.

Speakers at the programme emphasised that the legacy of the Bihar Movement and the anti-Emergency struggle is not merely a matter of historical memory but a continuing source of inspiration for strengthening democracy. They called for constant vigilance in safeguarding democratic institutions, civil liberties and national consciousness.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar