Marking 50 years since the declaration of the Emergency in India in 1975, the Government of Nagaland observed ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ with a state-level commemoration at the Civil Secretariat conference hall in Kohima on Tuesday.
Advisor for Art & Culture and Treasuries & Accounts, K Konngam Konyak, in his address, called the Emergency a period that “represents a complex chapter in India’s governance”, when normal democratic processes were suspended. “The country witnessed the suspension of certain fundamental rights, the imposition of press censorship, and the detention of political figures across the spectrum,” he noted.
Reflecting on its aftermath, Konyak said, “The peaceful transition of power in 1977 reaffirmed the people’s ultimate sovereignty. Indian democracy showed remarkable resilience.”
In Nagaland’s context, he said the event holds particular relevance: “Our region’s history teaches us that constitutional governance must balance security concerns with the protection of fundamental freedoms.”
Konyak also inaugurated an exhibition stall by the Department of Information and Public Relations, showcasing photographs and letters from the period. The programme saw participation from school students, departmental officials, and heads of departments. A patriotic song was presented by Government High School, PWD Colony, Kohima.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Konei Nakhro, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Kohima College, questioned the relevance of the 1975 Emergency in today’s context. “The answer lies not in nostalgia, but in democratic responsibility,” she said.
Turning attention to the Northeast, she pointed out the repeated constitutional interventions the region has faced. Referring to the ongoing crisis in Manipur, she remarked, “The prolonged unrest brought serious challenges—violence, displacement, and disruption to daily life. We do not want to see another Emergency.”
She emphasized that the responsibility of protecting democracy lies with everyone: “Whether in administration, law enforcement, education or civil society, each one of us is a trustee of the Constitution.”