Congress' Adhir Ranjan defends imposition of Emergency during Indira Gandhi's rule, says was for national security

Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Sunday defended the Emergency imposed during Indira Gandhi's leadership, asserting that it was not a threat to democracy but a measure taken for the country's security.

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Chowdhury emphasised that the Emergency was lifted, and elections were announced thereafter.

Addressing reporters, Chowdhury said: "During Indira Gandhi's leadership, the Emergency was imposed in the country. While we don't deny this, it was not because democracy was in danger. The government felt that the Emergency was necessary for the country's security, and after that, they lifted it and announced elections. Democracy was always in her mind, and there was no issue in extending the Emergency for a longer period."

He also noted that Congress had already apologised for past issues and did not see the need to revisit them.

Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Congress over the Emergency, stating that whenever 'democracy' is discussed, "this very sin" of Congress will be remembered.