Along with the rest of the country, Nagaland observed ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’m commemorating 50 years since the imposition of Emergency in India in 1975 reminding citizens on the importance of safeguarding democratic values and constitutional rights.
At the state Civil Secretariat, MLA and advisor Art and Culture, K Konngam Konyak speaking at the program said that the day marks an important moment of reflection in the nation’s constitutional history- a time to remember, learn and also to reaffirm its democratic values.
Highlighting the event of 1975, Konyak said that the period represents a complex chapter in India’s governance, where normal democratic processes were significantly altered. He added that during this time the country witnessed the suspension of certain fundamental rights, the imposition of press censorship, and the detention of political figures across the spectrum. He stated that what remains undeniable is that this period profoundly impacted the coumtry’s political consciousness and constitutional evolution.
Konyak further said that the aftermath of the emergency demonstrated the remarkable resilience of Indian democracy with the peaceful transition of power in 1977 through general elections reaffirmed the people’s ultimate sovereignty.
In Nagaland context, the MLA said this observance holds special significance as the people deeply understand the value of both stability and liberty. He maintained that the region’s history imparts that constitutional governance must balance security concerns with the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Konyak reminded that the Constitution of India is a living document and has weathered many challenges and emerged stronger each time, which is the true testament to the vision of its framers and the vigilance of its citizens. He further urged everyone to continue to uphold, protect and cherish our constitutional democracy.
Associate professor in the department of Political Science, Kohima College, Dr. Konei Nakhro while delivering her keynote address on the topic “The Emergency of 1975: a Constitutional Turning Point” questioned the relevance of the event after 50 years in today’s context. She said that the answer lies not in nostalgia, but in democratic responsibility. Nakhro added that this reflection becomes even more meaningful when attention is turned to India’s northeast- a region of immense diversity, cultural richness, and strategic importance. But it is also a region that has faced repeated constitutional interventions, often in response to political instability or breakdowns in governance, she added.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Nakhro reminded how fragile democratic governance can be, especially in regions facing complex social and political dynamics. Citing the recent case of the ethnic conflict in Manipur, Nakhro said that the prolonged unrest brought serious challenges – violence, displacement, and disruption to daily life. She also said that the situation drew serious attention even in the floor of the Parliament, where many members expressed their deep concern and anguish over the events that unfolded. Nakhro stated that the citizens do not want to see another Emergency of 1975, for which, everyone, whether in administration, law enforcement, policymaking, education, or civil society, is a trustee of the Constitution.
She reminded everyone that the responsibility is not just to implement policy but to preserve the spirit of democracy, protect our fundamental rights and uphold human dignity. The academician expressed hope that the memories of the Emergency of 1975 should not divide the people, but strengthen the resolve to protect the freedoms they inherited, and to never take democracy for granted.
As per the state DIPR, similar programmes marking the 1975 Emergency was held in different districts including Dimapur, Kohima, Meluri, Zunheboto, Tuensang, Kiphire and Mokokchung.
