Lucknow: On the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated a symposium titled "Black Chapter of Indian Democracy", marking what he called "Constitution Murder Day." During the address, the CM launched scathing attacks on the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), accusing them of undermining democracy and distorting the Constitution for political gain.
In a controversial statement, the CM called the addition of the words “secular” and “socialist” to the Constitution a “betrayal of India’s soul.” While framed in the context of the Emergency, political observers noted that the statement risks fueling communal divisions under the pretext of constitutional purism.
Yogi went on to claim that the Congress party suppressed the voices of Dalits and marginalized communities, alleging it betrayed the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He also accused SP and RJD of silence on “Constitution Murder Day,” describing their stance as opportunistic and self-serving.
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The event saw the announcement of a cashless healthcare scheme for Emergency-era detainees and their families. Though a policy move, the announcement was overshadowed by repeated ideological jabs at political opponents and attempts to recast historical events in sharply partisan tones.
During his address, CM Yogi claimed that “those who once opposed the Emergency now bend before the Congress,” a comment directed at regional parties in opposition alliances. His remarks further suggested that these parties have become complicit in dishonoring Ambedkar’s legacy by aligning with the Congress.
A display titled “Tragedy of the Emergency” was also inaugurated, showcasing archived news headlines and photographs. However, rather than offering an inclusive reflection on a dark chapter in Indian democracy, the event appeared heavily politicized, focusing on vilifying current opposition parties.
Yogi’s repeated references to Congress slogans and acts such as Rahul Gandhi tearing a copy of a bill in Parliament which, according to him, appeared intended to reinforce a narrative of democratic betrayal, rather than facilitate honest engagement with the Emergency’s legacy.
Several commentators questioned the timing and tone of the CM’s speech, suggesting that invoking religious overtones and partisan history at such forums diverts from broader discussions of democratic accountability.
The framing, they argued, risks converting solemn commemorations into ideological campaigns.
