HPAS/Allied Mains 2022 Answer Writing Challenge Day 109 : Model Answer

Question: The imposition of National Emergency should be considered as a blot on democracy. Elucidate. (4 Marks)

Solution:

The Emergency is considered a blot in Indian democracy as:

• The proclamation suspended the federal provisions of the constitution and fundamental rights and civil liberties.
• The government imposed strict censorship on the Press and stifled all protest and opposition to the government.
• Hundreds of the main leaders of the Opposition were arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). Several academics, newspapermen, trade unionists and student leaders were also put behind bars.
• During the Emergency, parliament was made utterly ineffective. The state governments were rigidly controlled.