A recent article in *The News on Sunday* draws comparisons between India’s current political climate under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 1975-1977 Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi. The analysis, penned by Hasan Askari Rizvi, highlights increasing authoritarian tendencies, including the suppression of dissent, restrictions on media freedom, and the use of state power to target political opponents during Modi’s twelve years in power. While acknowledging key differences – such as the absence of a formal declaration of emergency under Modi – the piece argues that extra-constitutional methods are being employed to consolidate power. These include the use of investigative agencies against critics, the passage of controversial legislation impacting citizenship, and a broader erosion of institutional independence. The author notes a concerning trend of stifling critical voices and a growing intolerance towards differing viewpoints. The article suggests a worrying shift away from India’s democratic norms, prompting concerns about the future of the country’s political landscape and the potential for further restrictions on civil liberties. Ultimately, the piece posits that while not identical, there are disturbing echoes of the past in the present political environment.
