The Kohima District Administration, in collaboration with the District Cultural Office, organized a district-level commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas (Day of Constitutional Assassination) on 25th June 2025 at the DC Conference Hall, Kohima. The event marked the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the National Emergency on 25th June 1975.
The programme began with the National Anthem and was chaired by Er. L. Yantsothung Lotha, EAC (P).
Delivering the Welcome Address, Ruopfükuotuo Noudi, ADC Kohima, emphasized the importance of remembering this significant day. He reminded the gathering that the Government of India has declared June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas to honour the courage and sacrifices of those who stood against the Emergency. He stated,
“The Emergency saw the suspension of fundamental rights, press censorship, and the imprisonment of political opponents. This observance is not just a remembrance—it is a call to remain vigilant in safeguarding our democracy and the Constitution.”
The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Ketoukhrieü, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Kohima College, on the theme “The Emergency of 1975: A Constitutional Turning Point.” She reflected on the historical, legal, and ethical dimensions of the Emergency from an academic standpoint.
Dr. Ketoukhrieü noted that the Emergency of 1975, declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was triggered by political unrest and a court ruling invalidating her election. During this time, democracy was virtually suspended—freedom of speech was suppressed, and thousands were imprisoned.
She also highlighted how the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution attempted to shift the balance of power and dilute individual rights, an act many scholars interpret as an effort to “constitutionalize authoritarianism.”
“This is not merely about looking back, but about looking within,” she said. “The Emergency teaches us that democracy is not self-sustaining. It demands vigilance, courage, and responsibility from every citizen. It is not just a legal system, but a moral framework that upholds liberty, justice, and dignity.”
Citing Martin Luther King Jr., she reminded the audience that obeying just laws is a duty, but so is resisting unjust ones.
She further stressed the importance of celebrating India’s diversity—not suppressing it—and called upon citizens to remain alert to any authoritarian tendencies, whether in institutions, political systems, or social norms.
“Emergencies aren’t always declared with official orders. Sometimes, they creep into our lives silently—through our silence and indifference. Let us not allow the memory of 1975 to divide us, but to strengthen our collective commitment to the soul of our democracy.”
The programme also featured a patriotic song performance by Benhi Himb, which resonated with the spirit of the day. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Haichenlo Kath, District Cultural Officer.
(Molungnenla IA, Kohima)