Question

What strengths and weaknesses of Indian democracy were exposed by the emergency declared in 1975?

Hint:

The Emergency of 1975 demonstrated the importance of institutional checks and balances, highlighting the risks of too much centralized power and the resilience of India’s democratic values.

Answer 1

The declaration of Emergency in 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi exposed both the strengths and weaknesses of Indian democracy. It was a critical moment that tested the resilience of democratic institutions and civil liberties in India.
Strengths of Indian Democracy:
1. Resilience of Democratic Institutions: Despite the suspension of democratic rights, the existence of institutions like the judiciary and the press acted as a check on absolute power. The judiciary, despite being under pressure, later declared parts of the Emergency unconstitutional.
2. Public Resistance and Protest: Public resistance during the Emergency period, including the protests led by leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, showed the strength of public opinion and the resolve to restore democracy.
Weaknesses of Indian Democracy:
1. Concentration of Power: The Emergency highlighted the dangers of excessive power being concentrated in the hands of a single individual or party. Indira Gandhi’s unilateral decision to declare Emergency undermined the checks and balances inherent in the democratic system.
2. Violation of Fundamental Rights: During the Emergency, civil liberties were suspended, political opponents were jailed, and media freedom was curbed, showing the vulnerabilities of democracy under authoritarian leadership.
Conclusion:
The Emergency of 1975 exposed the need for vigilance and safeguarding democratic processes. It underscored the necessity of a balance of power among the different branches of government to prevent the abuse of power.