Emergency Was Undemocratic, Not Unconstitutional: Shashi Tharoor on NDTV

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has sparked debate after stating that the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi in 1975 was “undemocratic” but not necessarily “unconstitutional.” His statement, made during an interview with NDTV, has ignited discussion about the historical event and its lasting impact on Indian democracy.

Tharoor, known for his sharp political acumen and articulate commentary, argued that the Emergency, while a grave violation of democratic principles, didn’t directly violate the Constitution. He elaborated that the President of India at the time, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, had acted within the framework of the Constitution while granting Indira Gandhi’s request for the proclamation of Emergency.

This perspective challenges the conventional understanding of the Emergency, which is often depicted as a blatant disregard for constitutional norms. Critics argue that the Emergency was a blatant power grab, undermining the fundamental rights of citizens and curtailing freedom of speech and press. They point to the mass arrests, censorship, and suppression of dissent as evidence of the regime’s undemocratic nature.

The controversy surrounding Tharoor’s statement highlights the complex nature of the Emergency and its lasting impact on Indian politics. While the legal technicalities of the proclamation are debated, the event remains a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the potential for abuse of power.

Key Takeaways:

• Shashi Tharoor argues that the Emergency was “undemocratic” but not “unconstitutional.”

• He claims that the President’s actions during the proclamation were within constitutional bounds.

• This perspective has sparked debate about the legality and legitimacy of the Emergency.

• The controversy highlights the complexity of the Emergency and its lasting impact on Indian democracy.

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Note: This article is written to be SEO optimized, including relevant keywords and a clear structure. However, it’s important to remember that this is a complex topic with nuanced perspectives. It is always recommended to read multiple sources and form your own informed opinion.

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