“When truth is silenced, democracy whispers in fear.”
June 25, 1975 one of the darkest nights in Indian democracy. Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a national Emergency, suspending civil liberties, censoring the press, and arresting opposition voices. For 21 long months, the Indian Constitution’s very spirit was put on hold.
What Happened in 1975?
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Press Censorship: Newspapers had to get government approval before publishing anything.
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Mass Arrests: Over 1,00,000 people were jailed – journalists, activists, students, and politicians.
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No Right to Speak: Fundamental Rights like free speech and expression were suspended.
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Total Control: Parliament, judiciary, media – everything bowed to one power center.
Yet, even in silence, brave journalists and citizens found ways to resist – through underground newsletters, handwritten notes, and voice-to-voice courage.
Where Do We Stand Today?
Technically, there’s no declared Emergency now. But the pressures are more subtle, yet equally alarming.
Similarities We See Today:
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Fear of Retaliation: Journalists are threatened, jailed, or trolled for speaking truth.
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Self-Censorship: Media houses avoid uncomfortable topics to protect revenue or safety.
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Digital Control: Algorithms decide what gets seen — often silencing independent voices.
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Legal Tools as Weapons: Laws like UAPA, sedition, and defamation are used to intimidate voices of dissent.
Democracy is Not Just About Voting-It’s About Listening
Unlike 1975, today’s control doesn’t need a formal declaration. It operates through:
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Paid news
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Political bias in media
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Declining independence of public institutions
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And public apathy
We, as citizens, must ask:
Are we living in freedom or just in the illusion of it?
Why We Must Remember 1975
Because forgetting it makes it easier to repeat.
Because young journalists today must know what happens when media stops questioning.
Because silence is not neutral – it’s a surrender.
📢 This is why initiatives like Bharat Aawaz and BMA matter – to bring back the courage to question, to inform, and to stand up when needed.
🗳️ Democracy is not just a right. It’s a responsibility.
