New Delhi

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Thursday described the Emergency as one of the darkest chapters of Indian history and paid tributes to those who stood in defence of democratic values.

India was placed under a state of Emergency from June 25, 1975 to March 21, 1977 under Article 352 of the Constitution, giving overriding powers to the executive and bringing state authority under central control.

Since 2025, the Modi government has been observing the anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency as 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas'.

"The Emergency stands as a solemn reminder of a time when constitutional values were severely tested. Civil liberties were suspended, freedom of expression was curtailed, and institutions central to our democratic framework were undermined," Radhakrishnan said on X.

On Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, I pay my humble tributes to all the brave souls who stood firm in defence of democratic values and safeguarded the spirit of our Constitution during one of the darkest chapters in India’s history - The Emergency declared in 1975.

The Emergency stands as…

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) June 25, 2026

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The vice president urged people to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Constitution and to continue to build an India rooted in justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.