1975 Emergency explained: A look back at India's 'dark days of democracy'

1975 Emergency: On June 25, 1975, then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency in India, citing a "deep and widespread conspiracy" against her government. This move followed a Supreme Court stay on a verdict nullifying her election and barring her from parliamentary proceedings. During the 21-month Emergency, civil liberties were suspended, and strict censorship was imposed. Gandhi's government faced criticism and protests, leading to its end in 1977 after general elections were called and political prisoners were released.