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6. The Crisis of Democratic Order

The chapter discusses the significant events surrounding the imposition of the Emergency in India from 1975 to 1977, focusing on the political, social, and economic contexts that led to this period. It highlights the clashes between the government and judiciary, economic troubles, and the consequent rise of opposition movements. The chapter also emphasizes the effects of Emergency on civil liberties and the political landscape, culminating in significant electoral changes in 1977, where the opposition came to power amidst widespread public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of democracy.

Sections

The Crisis of Democratic Order

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6 Section Overview

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6.1 Background to Emergency

This section examines the political and economic context leading to the imposition of the Emergency in India in 1975, highlighting conflicts between the government, judiciary, and opposition.

6.1.1 Economic context

The section outlines the economic challenges India faced leading to the Emergency in 1975, including inflation, unemployment, and social unrest.

6.1.2 Gujarat and Bihar movements

This section highlights the pivotal Gujarat and Bihar movements of the mid-1970s, which reflected widespread dissatisfaction with governance and led to significant changes in Indian politics.

6.1.3 Railway Strike of 1974

The Railway Strike of 1974 was a significant labor movement in India, highlighting the economic hardships faced by railway employees and escalating tensions between the government and labor unions.

6.1.4 Conflict with Judiciary

The section examines the conflict between the Indian government and the judiciary in the lead-up to the Emergency declared in 1975, highlighting the tensions surrounding constitutional authority and civil liberties.

6.2 Declaration of Emergency

The section addresses the political turmoil in India leading up to the Emergency declared in 1975 under Indira Gandhi, analyzing its implications on democracy.

6.2.1 Crisis and response

This section examines the political turmoil faced by India during the Emergency imposed in 1975 and its consequences on democracy and governance.

6.2.2 Consequences

This section discusses the imposition of the Emergency in India during 1975, its implications for democracy, and the subsequent political changes.

6.2.3 Lessons of the Emergency

This section outlines the key events leading to the Emergency in India (1975-1977), its implications on democracy, and the lessons learned from this tumultuous period.

6.3 Politics after Emergency

This section examines the period following the Emergency in India, highlighting the political changes, key events, and the lessons learned regarding democracy.

6.3.1 Lok Sabha Elections, 1977

The Lok Sabha Elections of 1977 marked a significant turning point in Indian politics, reflecting widespread discontent with the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi's government and showcasing the public's desire for democracy.

6.3.2 Janata Government

The Janata Government, formed post the Emergency, faced intense internal power struggles and eventually led to the Congress's return to power due to its instability and public dissatisfaction.

6.3.3 Legacy

This section discusses the imposition of the Emergency in India during 1975 and its significant impact on democracy, civil liberties, and political dynamics.

Learning Objectives

  • The Emergency was declared in June 1975 due to perceived internal disturbances.

  • It led to the suspension of Fundamental Rights and significant restrictions on civil liberties.

  • The political backlash against the Emergency resulted in the Congress party's defeat in the 1977 elections.

Key Concepts

Emergency

A state declared by the government due to threats to national security, enabling it to assume extraordinary powers.

Fundamental Rights

The basic rights guaranteed to all citizens by the Constitution, which were suspended during the Emergency.

Total Revolution

A call for a comprehensive socio-political transformation initiated by Jayaprakash Narayan against the Congress government.

Judiciary

The judicial system, which faced significant conflict with the ruling government during the Emergency regarding its autonomy.

Janata Party

An opposition party formed in 1977 that succeeded in the elections following the Emergency, uniting various anti-Congress factions.

Practice Exercises

Total Questions

4

Estimated Time

8 min

Passing Score

70%

Instructions

  • Read each question carefully
  • You can use hints if you need help
  • Complete all questions before submitting