Manipur observes Samvidhan Hatya Diwas to mark 50 years since emergency

The Government of Manipur on Wednesday observed Samvidhan Hatya Diwas with a solemn state-level function held at the Palace Auditorium of the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), Imphal. The occasion marked the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency on June 25, 1975, by the then Congress-led government under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi—an episode remembered as a turning point in India’s democratic history.
Organised by the Department of Art and Culture, the event paid homage to individuals who bore the brunt of the Emergency and stood resolute in upholding the principles of the Constitution. The venue was decorated in the tricolour theme to reflect the enduring values of democracy and national unity.
Vivek Kumar Dewangan, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, attended as the Chief Guest and led the formal observance. Over 1,500 participants, including civil servants, students, civil society members, and individuals who lived through the Emergency, attended the commemorative event.
One of the highlights was a special exhibition tracing India’s democratic roots—from ancient systems of community governance to the constitutional developments in post-Independence India. The exhibition provided detailed accounts of the events leading up to the Emergency, notably the 1975 Allahabad High Court verdict that disqualified Indira Gandhi from Parliament, and the subsequent constitutional amendments introduced to safeguard democratic institutions.
A short seven-minute film was screened during the event, featuring a school teacher narrating the history and significance of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas to his students. The narrative emphasized civic awareness, democratic responsibility, and the importance of preserving constitutional values. Its simple, engaging style made it accessible to a diverse audience.
Adding symbolic weight to the ceremony was the display of a Sengol replica near the stage—signifying righteousness and just governance—flanked by two digitally-lit eternal flames that remained alight throughout the programme.
The cultural segment included a patriotic song by students of Shree Shree Bal Mukunda Dev Music College, followed by a dance performance on democracy and nationalism by students of the Government Dance College. Both institutions function under the Department of Art and Culture.
Testimonies from individuals who experienced political imprisonment and repression during the Emergency added a personal and emotional dimension to the programme. Their stories of resilience served as powerful reminders of the importance of civil liberties.
The event concluded with a collective reflection on the significance of the Constitution and a call for vigilance against any form of democratic backsliding. The observance reinforced Manipur’s commitment to upholding constitutional governance and remembering the lessons of history.