The chapter "The Crisis of Democratic Order" examines
the events surrounding the imposition of the Emergency
in India (1975–77) and its impact on Indian democracy.
It highlights the political, social, and constitutional
issues that led to the crisis, the authoritarian measures
taken during the Emergency, and the subsequent
restoration of democracy.
1. Background to the Emergency
Economic Challenges: India faced severe economic
difficulties in the early 1970s, including high inflation,
unemployment, and food shortages due to droughts.
Political Unrest:
Widespread protests and strikes by workers, students,
and farmers against government policies created
instability.
Movements like the Navnirman Movement in Gujarat and
the Bihar Movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan (JP)
called for systemic reforms.
Legal Challenges to Indira Gandhi:
, In 1975, the Allahabad High Court declared Indira
Gandhi’s election to the Lok Sabha invalid due to
electoral malpractices.
This weakened her political position and legitimacy.
2. Declaration of Emergency (June 25, 1975)
Indira Gandhi recommended the imposition of
Emergency under Article 352 of the Constitution, citing
“internal disturbances” as the reason.
The President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, approved the
declaration.
The Emergency lasted from 1975 to 1977.
3. Key Features of the Emergency
Suspension of Civil Liberties: Fundamental rights,
including freedom of speech and expression, were
suspended.
Censorship: Strict press censorship was imposed, and
dissenting voices were silenced.
the events surrounding the imposition of the Emergency
in India (1975–77) and its impact on Indian democracy.
It highlights the political, social, and constitutional
issues that led to the crisis, the authoritarian measures
taken during the Emergency, and the subsequent
restoration of democracy.
1. Background to the Emergency
Economic Challenges: India faced severe economic
difficulties in the early 1970s, including high inflation,
unemployment, and food shortages due to droughts.
Political Unrest:
Widespread protests and strikes by workers, students,
and farmers against government policies created
instability.
Movements like the Navnirman Movement in Gujarat and
the Bihar Movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan (JP)
called for systemic reforms.
Legal Challenges to Indira Gandhi:
, In 1975, the Allahabad High Court declared Indira
Gandhi’s election to the Lok Sabha invalid due to
electoral malpractices.
This weakened her political position and legitimacy.
2. Declaration of Emergency (June 25, 1975)
Indira Gandhi recommended the imposition of
Emergency under Article 352 of the Constitution, citing
“internal disturbances” as the reason.
The President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, approved the
declaration.
The Emergency lasted from 1975 to 1977.
3. Key Features of the Emergency
Suspension of Civil Liberties: Fundamental rights,
including freedom of speech and expression, were
suspended.
Censorship: Strict press censorship was imposed, and
dissenting voices were silenced.
