NEW DELHI: In his first address as the newly elected Speaker of the Lok Sabha,
Om Birla
made a reference to Emergency, leading to
protests
from
opposition
members.
During his speech, Birla condemned the decision of the Congress-led government to declare an emergency in
1975
. The house also observed a two-minute silence in memory of those who died during that time.
"This House strongly condemns the decision to impose Emergency in 1975.
Along with this, we appreciate the determination of all those people who opposed the Emergency, fought and fulfilled the responsibility of protecting the democracy of India. 25th June 1975 will always be known as a black chapter in the history of India," Birla said.
He further added, "On this day, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency in the country and attacked the Constitution made by Baba Saheb Ambedkar. India is known all over the world as the mother of democracy. Democratic values and debate have always been supported in India. Democratic values have always been protected, they have always been encouraged. Dictatorship was imposed on such an India by Indira Gandhi. The democratic values of India were crushed and freedom of expression was strangled."
Later, Prime Minister also endorsed his supported Birla remarks and said that it is important for today's youth to know about Emergency.
Taking to X, PM Modi said, "I am glad that the Honourable Speaker strongly condemned the Emergency, highlighted the excesses committed during that time and also mentioned the manner in which democracy was strangled. It was also a wonderful gesture to stand in silence in honour of all those who suffered during those days."
"The Emergency was imposed 50 years ago but it is important for today's youth to know about it because it remains a fitting example of what happens when the Constitution is trampled over, public opinion is stifled and institutions are destroyed. The happenings during the Emergency exemplified what a dictatorship looks like,"
As the newly elected speaker delivered his remarks, opposition parties kept chanting "stop dictatorship." Subsequently, the Lok Sabha was adjourned until June 27.
Earlier today, NDA candidate Om Birla was chosen as the
Lok Sabha speaker
following the adoption of a motion put forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through voice votes.
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