Prominent legal experts consider the Emergency declared on the midnight of June 25, 1975, as a “horrible mistake” and the “darkest period” for liberty in independent India. It severely impacted the country’s democratic values and institutions.
Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, talks about how the judiciary changed after the 1975 Emergency. Earlier, courts had a narrow view of fundamental rights, but now they take a broader approach. He highlights the Supreme Court’s role in ensuring social justice, fairness, and constitutional values. While progress has been made, challenges like delays, high legal costs, and misinformation still exist. He emphasizes the need for more reforms to maintain trust in the judiciary.
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra criticized former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud for inviting Prime Minister Modi to a Ganpati puja and for suggesting divine guidance in judicial decisions. Her remarks sparked controversy, with calls for parliamentary action against her. Moitra condemned the government’s incremental erosion of constitutional values over the past decade.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, newly appointed as Chief Justice of India today(11th Nov), is tracing his ancestral roots back to his grandfather Sarav Dayal’s house in Amritsar. Despite its transformation, Khanna regularly visits Katra Sher Singh, cherishing memories and advice from his grandfather, and reflects on the family’s historical significance during the pre-Independence era.
In April 1976, Justice H.R. Khanna dissented in the ADM Jabalpur case, arguing personal liberty cannot be suspended during emergencies. His principled stand against the Indira Gandhi government led to his bypassing for Chief Justice, marking a pivotal moment for judicial independence. His legacy continues through his nephew, Justice Sanjiv Khanna.