BJP Kashmir Displaced District organized a poignant program to commemorate the Emergency Day, reflecting on the dark chapter of India’s history when civil liberties were suspended, and opposition leaders were detained. The Emergency, enforced on June 25, 1975, by then Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, witnessed widespread atrocities against opposition parties, censorship of the press and media, and mass arrests under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA).
The program was graced by Sh. Ashok Braroo, a prominent social activist, as the chief guest. The proceedings were conducted by H.K. Razdan, the District General Secretary, who welcomed the guests and set the tone for the day’s events. Rakesh Sadhu, the District Vice President, recited a heartfelt geet that resonated with the audience, bringing back memories of the challenging period.
Chand Ji Bhat, the District President, delivered a detailed account of the Emergency period during the Congress regime, highlighting the severe hardships faced by the people of India and opposition leaders. He underscored the importance of remembering this period to ensure such an infringement on civil rights is never repeated.
Ashok Braroo was honored with a memento and a shawl as a token of appreciation for his contributions. In his address, Braroo shared his personal experiences during the Emergency and his active role in resisting the oppressive regime. He recounted the arrests of key activists in Kashmir, including Pt. Tika Lal Taploo, Shuban Pandit, and Madan Lal Khushu. Braroo urged the BJP Karikartas to engage with the community, educating them about the atrocities faced during the Emergency and the importance of safeguarding democratic values.
Ex MLC Ajay Bharti, in his speech, highlighted the widespread suffering of the Indian populace from 1975 to 1977. He emphasized that the country was effectively turned into a jail, with approximately 100,000 individuals, including many opposition leaders, detained. Bharti criticized the Congress party, stating that those who imposed the Emergency have no moral authority to claim love for the Constitution.
Discussing the recent elections, Bharti praised the dedication of all Karikartas of the Displaced District, including the efforts of the Yuva Morcha team, which resulted in a significant voter turnout. He encouraged the Karikartas to initiate outreach programs to engage with community members, aiming for a 100 percent voting turnout in the upcoming assembly elections.
H.L. Bhat, the Seh Prabhari, also spoke on the occasion, adding his perspectives on the importance of this commemoration.
The program saw participation from several key Karikartas, including Anil Dhar, Sweety Koul, Chetan Wanchu, Sanjay Bhat, Rajeev Pandita (Vice Presidents), M.L. Bhat, H.K. Razdan (District General Secretaries), Rohit Ganju (President Yuva Morcha), Bushan Lal Raina, Bushan Lal Bhan (Mandal Presidents), along with the Mahila Morcha team, booth presidents, and other Mandal and booth Karikartas.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the singing of the National Anthem, leaving the attendees with a reinforced commitment to uphold democratic principles and prevent any recurrence of such a dark period in India’s history.