Cong ‘strangled democracy’ to retain power: Adityanath
Yogi Adityanath Condemns Congress's Emergency Measures as Democratic Stifling
Cong strangled democracy to retain power - Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday criticized the Congress party for its role in undermining democratic principles during the Emergency era, asserting that its actions went beyond a mere challenge to India's political system and directly threatened the ideals championed by Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar.
Legacy of Ambedkar's Vision Under Threat
Speaking at the 'Loktantra Senani Samman Samaroh' in Lucknow, Adityanath highlighted the 51st anniversary of the 1975 Emergency, which he described as a period when the Congress party curtailed democratic freedoms to consolidate power. He emphasized that the imposition of the Emergency was driven by political ambition and aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
"Today, the nation reflects on that dark chapter of June 25, 1975, when the Congress party stifled democratic processes to secure its grip on governance," Adityanath stated.
He accused Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of using the Emergency to suppress opposition and evade the consequences of judicial rulings. Adityanath claimed the party sought to erase the rights of marginalized groups, including Dalits, women, and backward communities, which Ambedkar had fought to ensure for all citizens.
SP Leadership's Shift Toward Congress
Adityanath also criticized the current Samajwadi Party (SP) leadership for betraying the legacy of Mulayam Singh Yadav, who had consistently opposed alliances with the Congress. He questioned the party's decision to associate with Congress, stating that such moves risked undermining the values of democratic struggle that Yadav had upheld.
"Whenever the SP sought collaboration with Congress, Mulayam Singh Yadav resisted. Yet today, his successors are willing to compromise his legacy by joining forces with the party that once oppressed the people," Adityanath remarked.
He further pointed out that the Congress party had silenced media, political parties, and the youth during that time, using censorship to mask its authoritarian tactics. Adityanath highlighted the restriction of judicial independence and the alteration of the Constitution's Preamble, calling it a symbolic act of betrayal.
"The same Congress that altered the Constitution in the dead of night now clings to its image while misleading the public," he said.
Adityanath praised the present leadership's commitment to democratic values, emphasizing that under Prime Minister Modi, governance is centered on empowering citizens. He stressed the importance of connecting the underprivileged with the benefits of government initiatives.
Government's Development Initiatives and Welfare Plans
At a gathering in Sant Kabir Nagar, Adityanath announced new welfare programs for individuals who resisted the Emergency, labeling them "Loktantra Senanis." These measures include state honors at their final ceremonies, expanded healthcare access, and free public transportation.
Adityanath also highlighted his government's achievements, such as developing world-class infrastructure within nine years, including four-lane highways, improved railway and air links, and a strengthened healthcare framework. He noted the inauguration of 17 projects worth ₹54.42 crore and the laying of foundation stones for 48 additional projects, totaling ₹170.37 crore.
“The sacrifices of these democracy fighters should not be forgotten. Their courage in defending democratic values deserves recognition,” Adityanath concluded.