Samvidhan Hatya Diwas 2025 marks 50 years of the Emergency in India. Learn its significance, Article 352, historical background, key facts, and why this topic is important for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, PSC, and other competitive exams.
Ministry Organises Nationwide Commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas
The Ministry of Culture commemorated Samvidhan Hatya Diwas through a special programme organised by the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) in New Delhi to mark the completion of 50 years since the Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975. The event aimed to reinforce awareness about democracy, constitutional values, citizens’ rights, and the importance of preserving democratic institutions.
Union Minister Highlights Democratic Values
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressed the gathering and stated that democracy forms an integral part of India’s identity. He emphasised that democracy extends beyond elections and includes freedom of expression, an independent media, protection of citizens’ dignity, and the supremacy of the Constitution.
According to the Minister, remembering the Emergency provides an opportunity to understand the value of constitutional freedoms and appreciate the resilience of India’s democratic institutions.
Exhibition and Cultural Programmes
The event featured an exhibition titled “Long Live Democracy”, showcasing the impact of the Emergency and highlighting the importance of protecting constitutional rights. Another exhibition focused on the Digital District Repository (DDR), a national initiative documenting district-level stories, personalities, and places associated with India’s freedom struggle.
More than one thousand students from schools and NGOs participated in the programme. A documentary on Samvidhan Hatya Diwas was screened, while CCRT scholars presented a musical tribute celebrating the spirit of democracy.
Honouring Contributors to the Nation
Veteran journalist Ram Bahadur Rai, who was imprisoned during the Emergency, delivered a special address reflecting on that period. Freedom fighters, researchers, teachers, and institutions contributing to the Digital District Repository were also felicitated for preserving India’s historical legacy.
Government’s Objective
The Government has notified that June 25 will be observed annually as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas. The nationwide commemoration, running from June 2024 to June 2026, seeks to educate citizens about constitutional values, democratic rights, and the lessons learned from the Emergency period through seminars, exhibitions, debates, and public awareness programmes.
Why This News is Important
Important for Indian Polity and Constitution
This development is highly relevant for competitive examinations because questions related to the Emergency (1975–1977), Fundamental Rights, constitutional amendments, and democratic institutions are frequently asked in UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, Police, and Teaching examinations.
Understanding Constitutional Values
The observance encourages citizens to understand the importance of constitutional governance, civil liberties, judicial independence, and freedom of the press. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences when democratic institutions face extraordinary constitutional situations.
Relevance for Current Affairs
The Government’s annual observance of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas has become an important contemporary current affairs topic. Aspirants should know:
- Date of observance: 25 June
- Linked event: Proclamation of the National Emergency in 1975
- Objective: Promote awareness of constitutional values and democratic rights
- Organising Ministry: Ministry of Culture
Examination Perspective
Questions may be asked regarding:
- Article 352 of the Constitution
- Internal Emergency (1975)
- Fundamental Rights during Emergency
- Constitutional amendments during the Emergency period
- Major personalities and political developments associated with the Emergency.
Historical Context
The Emergency of 1975
On 25 June 1975, a National Emergency was proclaimed under Article 352 of the Constitution on the ground of “internal disturbance.” It remained in force until 21 March 1977, making it one of the most significant constitutional periods in independent India.
Major Features
During the Emergency:
- Fundamental Rights were significantly restricted.
- Press censorship was imposed.
- Several political leaders and activists were detained.
- The powers of the executive expanded considerably.
- Parliament passed important constitutional amendments.
Present-Day Commemoration
In recent years, the Government has designated 25 June as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas to remember the Emergency period and to promote awareness regarding constitutional governance and democratic values through educational and public outreach programmes.
Key Takeaways from This News
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Samvidhan Hatya Diwas is observed annually on 25 June. |
| 2 | The observance marks the anniversary of the Emergency imposed on 25 June 1975. |
| 3 | The Ministry of Culture organised the national commemoration through CCRT. |
| 4 | The programme highlighted democracy, constitutional values, citizens’ rights, and the rule of law. |
| 5 | The topic is highly important for UPSC, PSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, Police, and other government examinations due to its connection with the Indian Constitution and polity. |
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is Samvidhan Hatya Diwas?
Samvidhan Hatya Diwas is observed every year on 25 June to commemorate the proclamation of the Emergency in India in 1975 and to promote awareness about the importance of democracy and constitutional values.
2. Why is Samvidhan Hatya Diwas observed?
It is observed to remind citizens of the significance of protecting the Constitution, democratic institutions, civil liberties, and Fundamental Rights while remembering the events during the Emergency (1975–1977).
3. Which ministry organized the Samvidhan Hatya Diwas commemoration?
The Ministry of Culture, through the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT), organized the commemorative programme.
4. On which date was the Emergency imposed in India?
The National Emergency was proclaimed on 25 June 1975.
5. Under which Article of the Constitution was the Emergency declared?
The Emergency was declared under Article 352 of the Constitution of India.
6. How long did the Emergency last in India?
The Emergency remained in force from 25 June 1975 to 21 March 1977, lasting approximately 21 months.
7. What was the theme of the exhibition organized during the event?
One of the major exhibitions was titled “Long Live Democracy,” highlighting the importance of democratic values and constitutional governance.
8. What is the Digital District Repository (DDR)?
The Digital District Repository is an initiative that documents district-level contributions, historical personalities, and important places associated with India’s freedom movement and cultural heritage.
9. Why is this topic important for competitive examinations?
The Emergency, Article 352, Fundamental Rights, constitutional amendments, and democratic governance are frequently asked topics in UPSC, State PSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, Police, and Teaching examinations.
10. Which subjects are most closely related to this current affairs topic?
This topic is important for:
General Studies Paper-II (UPSC)
Indian Polity
Indian Constitution
Modern Indian History
Governance
Current Affairs
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