Jaishankar: Emergency Tarnished India’s Global Image, Congress Never Expressed Regret

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi — Marking 50 years since the declaration of the Emergency, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reflected on its impact from a global diplomatic lens, describing it as a dark chapter that severely damaged India’s international reputation and democratic standing.

Speaking at an event in the national capital, Jaishankar said, “My seniors in the Foreign Service told me how difficult it was to defend the Emergency in the world. India was criticised so much and our image as the 'mother of democracy' was tarnished. It was a tough time for being a diplomat.”

The Emergency, imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, suspended civil liberties, curtailed press freedom, and led to the arrest of opposition leaders and activists. While widely condemned within India, it also drew sharp criticism from the international community.

Jaishankar recalled how foreign service officials struggled to justify the move, which clashed with India’s longstanding image as a democratic beacon among post-colonial nations. “It was a moment when our core values were called into question globally,” he said.

He also criticised the Congress party for its consistent lack of apology or introspection on the issue. “On being asked if she would have changed anything about the Emergency, Indira Gandhi replied with a firm 'No'. Never has the Congress party, Indira Gandhi or even Rajiv Gandhi, expressed regret,” Jaishankar pointed out.