The Emergency was a severe blow to democratic values: Union Minister Shekhawat - ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ event held in Rohtak; ‘Loktantra Senanis’ honored

Rohtak, June 25, 2026:  Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that June 25, 1975, marks a significant and painful chapter in the history of Indian democracy; as it was the day, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed a state of emergency in the country. This period saw a profound impact on civil liberties, freedom of expression, and democratic institutions. He emphasized the need to acquaint the new generation with the actual circumstances of that era so that society's commitment to democratic values could be further strengthened.

Addressing the ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ event held at the Tagore Auditorium of MDU, Union Minister Shekhawat remarked that democracy is not merely a system of governance but a framework based on citizen participation, freedom of expression, and respect for constitutional institutions. He noted that June 25 offers an opportunity to reinforce democratic consciousness and reflect on our obligations toward the Constitution.

The Union Tourism Minister stated that numerous political leaders, social activists, and proponents of democracy faced arduous conditions during the Emergency. Restrictions on the press and curbs on civil rights posed a serious challenge to the democratic system. He asserted that the need of the hour is to learn from such experiences and further fortify democratic institutions.

He highlighted that the roots of democratic traditions in India run deep into antiquity. Institutions such as the ‘Sabha’ and ‘Samiti’ from the Vedic era bear witness to the fact that collective decision-making and public participation have been integral to Indian culture. Acknowledging the contribution of Justice H.R. Khanna, he described his commitment to upholding democratic values as truly inspiring.

Meanwhile, BJP State President Dr. Archana Gupta paid tribute to the ‘Loktantra Senanis,' stating that the preservation of democratic values was made possible through their struggles and sacrifices. Recalling the contributions of the veteran democracy warrior and former Deputy Chief Minister, the late Dr. Mangal Sen, she remarked that such personalities serve as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Dr. Archana Gupta stated that 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' is not merely an occasion to recall past events but also a means to raise awareness about democracy, the Constitution, and civic duties. She urged the youth to cultivate fact-based thinking and remain vigilant against misleading information.

BJP National Secretary Omprakash Dhankhar remarked that the events of the Emergency offer significant lessons for democracy. He noted that society and the nation cherish the experiences of their history to ensure the future protection of democratic values and civil liberties.

Rajya Sabha MP and program coordinator Sanjay Bhatia observed that a large section of the country's population has not witnessed the Emergency era. Therefore, it is essential to convey the struggles, sacrifices, and selflessness of the ‘Loktantra Senanis’ to the new generation. He emphasized that documenting and disseminating the struggles undertaken to safeguard democracy is the need of the hour.

Conducting the proceedings, former Minister Manish Kumar Grover stated that Rohtak was a pivotal hub for pro-democracy activities during the Emergency. Many senior leaders and activists fought to protect democratic rights, and the memories of those struggles continue to inspire us today.

The event was attended by Lok Sabha MP Ch. Dharamvir Singh; Haryana government ministers Krishan Lal Panwar and Dr. Arvind Sharma; MLAs Ramkumar Gautam, Kapoor Singh Valmiki, Pramod Vij, and Devendra Attri; former MP Ramchandra Jangra; State Office Secretary Gulshan Bhatia; State Treasurer Ajay Bansal; and State Media Co-in-charge Shamsher Singh Kharak. 

Also present were numerous ‘Loktantra Senanis’—including Subhash Ahuja, Ravindra Saxena, Satish Katyal, and Madan Lal Harjai, who had been imprisoned during the Emergency—along with public representatives and BJP workers. During the program, ‘Loktantra Senanis’ from various districts who had fought to protect democracy during the Emergency, as well as their family members, were honored.