The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Manipur Pradesh, today observed Samvidhan Hatya Diwas at its state headquarters to mark the 51st anniversary of the Emergency imposed in 1975, which party leaders described as a dark chapter in India’s democratic history.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, who attended the programme as chief guest, criticised the Emergency imposed by the then Congress government, alleging that the period was marked by authoritarian rule and the suppression of democratic rights. He said the rise of the BJP was rooted in public opposition to such politics and reiterated that the people remain supreme in a democratic system.
As part of the observance, individuals who were arrested during the Emergency for opposing the government were honoured for their contributions to the democratic movement.
Speaking on the current situation in Manipur, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of peace and normalcy for the state’s development. He noted that conditions had improved in several parts of the state and pointed to Jiribam district as an example where members of different communities, including Hmar, Paite, Meitei, Kuki and Naga, have resumed living together peacefully.
Khemchand said many internally displaced persons had returned to their native villages and restarted their normal lives, describing the development as a positive sign towards lasting peace.
Referring to the ongoing tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities, he appealed to the Meitei community to play the role of a “big brother” in promoting reconciliation and mutual understanding. He described the conflict as unfortunate and said collective efforts were needed to maintain peace and stability.
The Chief Minister further stated that the restoration of a popular government after President’s Rule has enabled the administration to focus on pending developmental projects. Emphasising that development cannot take place without peace, he called for cooperation from all sections of society.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Jiribam, Khemchand said the district has the potential to emerge as a major commercial hub of the state. He also announced that a major project under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi would soon be launched in the district, with details to be disclosed later.
The programme was attended by BJP ministers, MLAs, party leaders and workers.
