Summary
In 1975, India's Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a nationwide Emergency, which lasted 21 months. During this time, civil liberties were suspended, opposition leaders were jailed, and the press was censored. The Emergency followed a court ruling against Gandhi for election issues, leading to a significant increase in executive power.
Key Facts
- Indira Gandhi declared an Emergency in India on June 25, 1975.
- Civil liberties were suspended, and the press was censored.
- Over 110,000 people, including major political figures, were arrested.
- The Emergency began after a court found Gandhi guilty of election malpractice.
- A controversial family planning program led to the sterilization of about 11 million people.
- Massive slum demolitions displaced around 700,000 people in Delhi.
- Opposition leaders were jailed, and courts offered little resistance.
- A court verdict jeopardized Gandhi's political status, prompting the Emergency declaration.
