Shashi Tharoor Labels 1975 Emergency a ‘Dark Chapter’

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, known for his candid views, has once again stirred political discourse by taking a firm stand against India’s Emergency period (1975–77), describing it as a “dark chapter” in the nation’s history. Through a recent opinion piece published in the Malayalam daily Deepika, Tharoor emphasized the timeless lessons from that era and cautioned against any attempt to undermine India’s democratic values.

What Tharoor Recalled About the Emergency

Tharoor revisited the turmoil that engulfed the nation between June 25, 1975, and March 21, 1977, during then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s suspension of civil liberties. He emphasized that while the Emergency might have ended decades ago, its warnings remain starkly relevant today. According to him, the efforts to impose order through authoritarian rule eventually morphed into acts of oppression—an unsustainable approach for any democracy.

Forced Sterilisation: A Symbol of Coercion

One of the most chilling episodes Tharoor detailed was the forced sterilisation campaign led by Sanjay Gandhi, son of Indira Gandhi. Targets imposed on rural populations resulted in:

• Aggressive family planning measures

• Use of force or coercion

• Mass evictions of slum dwellers in urban centers, often with little or no support afterward – many left homeless, struggling to rebuild lives

Tharoor described this as a cruel and unnecessary breach of civil rights, reinforcing the importance of respecting individual freedoms in a democracy.

“India Today Is Not the India of 1975”

While condemning the Emergency, Tharoor also acknowledged the country’s evolution. He wrote, “Today’s India is more confident, more mature, and politically stronger.” He underscored:

• A vibrant democracy

• An actively engaged media

• A population increasingly protective of civil liberties

However, he stressed that the Emergency’s lessons shouldn’t be forgotten, given the recent trends toward centralisation and suppression of dissent.

An Alert to Those in Power

Tharoor warned that unchecked power—often rationalised in the name of national security or stability—is a constant threat to democracy. He urged those in office and guardians of constitutional values to remain vigilant against:

• Centralisation of authority

• Suppression of dissenting voices

• Erosion of constitutional checks and balances

He reminded readers: “The Emergency serves as an unambiguous warning… defenders of democracy must always be on guard.”

Why This Commentary Matters Today

Tharoor’s reflections come amid growing concerns over:

• Increasing control over press and institutions

• Expanded surveillance powers

• Laws that appear to penalize dissent

While India’s democracy remains intact, Tharoor’s warning serves as a timely op-ed for citizens to remain aware and informed.

Breaking Down the Core Message

1. Condemnation of the Emergency: A period so fraught with suppression that it must always remind us how fragile freedom can be.

2. Reminder of Past Harms: From forced sterilisation to evictions, cruelties were legitimized as state policy.

3. Today’s Stronger Landscape: While India has progressed, no democracy is entirely foolproof.

4. Universal Warning: Power must always be checked, and guardians of democracy must defend freedom without compromise.

What This Means for India’s Democracy

Tharoor’s column underscores that democracy isn’t just about elections; it’s about:

• Preserving dissent

• Maintaining freedom of speech

• Ensuring constitutional safeguards are enforced

The Emergency reminds us how easily liberties can be compromised when power goes unchecked. His warning gives civic leaders, journalists, and citizens alike, enough cause to pause and reflect.

Shashi Tharoor: A Voice from Within

This is not the first time Tharoor has voiced such concerns. He has also praised certain policies of the current government, exhibiting a bold independence rare in Indian politics. Known for his eloquence and firm political beliefs, Tharoor bridges party lines while calling for ground-level accountability.

Timely Reminder on Democracy’s Value

India has come a long way since 1975—through:

• A diversifying media ecosystem

• Citizen activism on social and digital platforms

• Political awareness and stronger judicial independence

Yet, as Tharoor maintains, these gains cannot be taken for granted. His commentary highlights the ongoing walkway between safeguarding freedom and falling back into authoritarian tendencies.

How This Conversation Shapes Policy

Tharoor’s public statement may inspire:

• Journalistic investigations into institutional power

• Parliamentary debates on personal freedoms

• Activism against laws that could undermine civil liberties

In a fast-paced political environment, such voices of reason often stimulate constructive dialogue.

The Road Ahead for India’s Democracy

Tharoor concluded with a call: Learn from 1975, but build for 2025 and beyond. He urged policymakers and civil society to:

• Ensure power decentralisation

• Enhance transparency

• Prioritize rights-based governance

Only then can India truly embody the democratic ideals it enshrined in its Constitution.