Soon after assuming office as the Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla ignited a contentious debate by reading a resolution condemning the imposition of Emergency in 1975 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. This act led to heated exchanges in the House, particularly from Congress members who protested vehemently against the mention of Emergency.
BulletsIn
- Om Birla highlighted June 26, 1975, as the day when Emergency was imposed, describing it as an assault on the Constitution and democratic values.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi supported the Speaker’s reference, emphasizing the importance of remembering Emergency as a period of authoritarianism and suppression of freedoms.
- Opposition members, primarily from Congress, raised slogans in protest against the resolution in the Lok Sabha.
- BJP MPs gathered outside Parliament to protest against the suspension of civil liberties during the Emergency.
- The resolution condemned the Congress government’s actions during Emergency, including the imprisonment of opposition leaders and restrictions on media freedom.
- Om Birla emphasized the role of democratic values and the resilience of those who opposed Emergency in safeguarding India’s democracy.
- He criticized Indira Gandhi’s policies during Emergency, including forced sterilizations and curtailment of judicial autonomy.
- The Speaker described Emergency as a dark chapter in Indian history that inflicted suffering on marginalized communities.
- The resolution expressed condolences to those affected by the oppressive policies of the Emergency era.
- The debate underscored contrasting views on Emergency, with BJP highlighting its authoritarian nature and Congress members contesting the portrayal of history.
