Question

Why was emergency imposed in 1975? Mention any two reasons.

Hint:

Remember the constitutional article used to declare the Emergency (Article 352) and the key impacts, such as the suspension of Fundamental Rights and severe press censorship. The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 later changed the ground of "internal disturbance" to "armed rebellion" to prevent future misuse.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
On June 25, 1975, a state of national emergency was declared across India by President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed upon the advice of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The government cited threats of "internal disturbance" under Article 352 of the Constitution.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. The Allahabad High Court Judgment: On June 12, 1975, Justice Jagmohanlal Sinha of the Allahabad High Court found Prime Minister Indira Gandhi guilty of electoral malpractices in her 1971 election campaign. The court declared her election invalid and barred her from holding any elected office for six years. This verdict created a major political crisis and calls for her immediate resignation.
2. Growing Political Opposition and Unrest: The period leading up to 1975 was marked by high inflation, unemployment, and food shortages. This led to widespread student protests and strikes. A major movement, known as the JP Movement, was launched by veteran Gandhian leader Jayaprakash Narayan, calling for "Total Revolution." He organized massive rallies, demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister, which the government perceived as a threat to political stability and a call for rebellion.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Emergency was imposed in response to the political crisis triggered by the Allahabad High Court's adverse judgment against Indira Gandhi and the escalating challenge to her government from widespread popular protests led by Jayaprakash Narayan.