Sacrifices of democracy fighters must never be forgotten: Chhattisgarh CM

Raipur, Jun 28 (PTI) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday described Emergency as a dark chapter in India’s democratic history and said the sacrifices of "democracy fighters" must never be forgotten. He was speaking at an event after releasing the memorial publication “Aapatkaal Ke Yoddha” (Warriors of Emergency). The CM also honoured the winners of a state-level essay competition on the Emergency, a government official said. Chhattisgarh has always been a land of struggle, culture and tradition, holding deep commitment to democratic values, he said. The inclusion of "this subject" (Emergency) in the school curriculum is a commendable initiative to acquaint the future generation with history, he said. Between June 25, 1975 and March 21, 1977, India was placed under a state of Emergency under Article 352 of the Constitution. Since 2025, the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has been observing the day as ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’. Recalling his family’s experience, Sai said his uncle, late Narhari Sai, was jailed for 19 months during Emergency. Volunteers would secretly supply food to affected families, he said. Emergency is a dark chapter in India’s democratic history, and “the sacrifices of democracy fighters must never be forgotten”, he said. Addressing the gathering, keynote speaker Indresh Kumar said that democracy is not merely a system of governance but a way of life. “It was a testing period for Indian democracy when freedom of expression and fundamental rights came under severe strain. The sacrifices of democracy fighters, who endured imprisonment and hardship, should inspire future generations,” he said. He urged the youth to uphold unity, discipline and social harmony and appealed to them to embrace the spirit of “Nation First”. “India’s cultural values have strengthened society and can further reinforce the country’s global identity,” he said. Assembly Speaker Raman Singh said Emergency posed a grave challenge to Indian democracy and serves as a reminder to remain vigilant in protecting democratic values. More than 540 students participated in the state-level essay competition. In the school category, Jagriti Jangde of J R Dani Girls School, Raipur, won first prize and received Rs 31,000 and a memento, followed by Korba-based Suraj Tandiya of Vivekanand Vidyapeeth School and Agrasen International School’s Ansh Deshmukh of Durg at third place. In the college category, Kalyani Patle of Raipur secured the first place, followed by Seema Sao of Raigarh and Khushboo of Durg, said the official. The event was also attended by Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu and Rajya Sabha MP Laxmi Verma. PTI COR NR