'Constitution Murder Day': Centre Asks States To Hold Torch Yatras, Exhibitions To Mark 50th Year Of Emergency

The Centre has instructed all states and Union Territories to undertake a year-long commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Emergency’s imposition on 25 June, as ‘Constitution Murder Day’, reported The New Indian Express.

Planned activities include torch marches, film screenings, mass outreach programmes in schools and colleges.

According to the TNIE report, the Union Culture Ministry, in a letter to Chief Secretaries, stated that the event should foster reflection on democratic values and constitutional ethics.

The year-long programme will run from 25 June 2025 to 25 June 2026.

The main feature will be a Mashal/E-torch yatra, with six torches symbolising 'spirit of democracy' being launched from Delhi on 25 June 2025.

The torch procession will end at Kartavya Path on 21 March 2026, with Prime Minister Modi in attendance.

Additional plans include exhibitions, seminars, and outreach to schools and colleges.

States have been asked to appoint nodal officers to coordinate with the Centre.

Public programmes are planned for 25 June, where participants may carry national flags and approved placards with slogans such as “India: Mother of Democracy”, “Long Live Democracy”, and "Salute to Sengol-in the Spirit of Democracy".

The ministry said patriotic songs, short films, and street plays will be continuously featured at event venues to foster a patriotic atmosphere.

A special area will be reserved for invitees representing individuals directly affected by the Emergency.

A Sengol replica will be placed near the stage, and a canvas will allow attendees to write pre-approved slogans in local languages.

The ministry has recommended exhibitions at 50 high-footfall sites like malls, railway stations, and schools, with a balanced rural-urban distribution for broader reach.

A short film on ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ will be produced by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and made available online after 22 June.

The ministry described the 1975 Emergency as a dark chapter in India’s democratic history, warranting reflection and public awareness.

The Ministry of Home Affairs officially designated 25 June as “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas” through a notification dated 11 July 2024, citing the Emergency’s impact on civil liberties, press freedom, and the detention of political leaders and activists.