New Delhi, 25 June (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described the Emergency period as a dark chapter in the history of Indian democracy and said that Constitution Murder Day serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions, constitutional values and citizens' rights.

On the occasion of Constitution Murder Day, the Prime Minister said the observance inspires citizens to remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting democracy and the Constitution.

In a message posted on social media platform X, PM Modi said, Constitution Murder Day reminds us of that dark period when Indian democracy was brutally suppressed. It inspires us to remain committed to protecting democracy, the Constitution and citizens' rights at all times. I pay my respectful tributes to all those who opposed the Emergency.

The Prime Minister also shared a Sanskrit verse and highlighted the significance of freedom in human life:

Swatantryat Sukham Apnoti, Swatantryal Labhate Param.

Swatantryan Nirvrittim Gacchet, Swatantryat Paramam Padam.

Explaining the meaning of the verse, PM Modi said that true happiness comes through freedom and that liberty enables individuals to achieve the highest goals in life. Freedom, he noted, paves the way for contentment, inner peace and the attainment of life's highest ideals.

Constitution Murder Day is observed annually on June 25. The Government of India instituted the observance to mark the anniversary of the Emergency imposed in 1975 by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

According to the government, the day serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by democratic institutions during the Emergency and honours those who stood up in defence of democracy, constitutional governance and civil liberties during that period.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar