Mangaluru – Marking 50 years since the imposition of Emergency in India, a programme titled ‘50 Years of the Dark History’ was held in Mangaluru, where senior BJP leaders launched sharp criticisms against the Congress party, calling out its “dictatorial mindset.”
Addressing the gathering, Legislative Council Member C T Ravi accused former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of dismantling constitutional safeguards for personal gain. “She amputated the Constitution to serve her interests. At that time, democracy was handcuffed and judicial independence was destroyed,” he remarked.
He questioned whether Congress leaders today have the moral ground to carry the Constitution, claiming their attitude hasn’t changed since the Emergency. Ravi also cited Dr B R Ambedkar, saying he had warned the country to “stay away from the Congress.”
Slamming Mallikarjun Kharge, Ravi asked, “What role did Kharge play during the Emergency? He stood by Indira like a loyal follower, seeking favours while democracy was under attack.”
BJP national general secretary Radha Mohan Das Agarwal echoed these sentiments, equating Congress rule with historical subjugation. “Whether under the Mughals, the British, or the Congress, slavery is slavery,” he said.
He alleged a cover-up in the mysterious death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, claiming that Congress never allowed a proper investigation. “From Nehru to Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leadership has displayed an autocratic pattern,” he stated.
Both leaders warned that a Congress return to power could revive Emergency-era suppression. “As long as BJP governs, we will protect democratic values,” they assured.