India saw birth of B’desh, clamping of Emergency

Jaipur: The tenure of the fifth Lok Sabha, marked by significant events and controversies, reshaped both Indian politics and global dynamics. Led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, India fought a decisive war against Pakistan in 1971, resulting in the creation of Bangladesh and enhancing Gandhi’s political stature. This period also witnessed amendments to the original Preamble of the Constitution, introducing the terms ‘Secular’ and ‘Socialist’.

However, the era was marred by the imposition of Emergency in June 1975, extending the Lok Sabha’s term by a year. These events not only bolstered Indira Gandhi’s image as a bold politician but also elevated her popularity. Fifth LS also witnessed an amendment to the original Constitution Preamble, incorporating the words ‘Secular’ and ‘Socialist’.

However, the period also saw the imposition of ‘Emergency’ by PM Indira Gandhi in June 1975, leading to a oneyear extension of the Lok Sabha’s tenure.

Initially, the fifth Lok Sabha faced economic challenges exacerbated by the Indo-Pak war, soaring oil prices, and declining industrial production. Despite coming to power with a promise to eradicate poverty, Indira’s govt grappled with economic turmoil. The Congress suffered a significant setback when Allahabad HC declared Indira’s election illegal due to electoral corruption charges in June 1975 while hearing petition her main rival Raj Narayan.

Rather than resigning, Indira declared Emergency on June 26, 1975, leading to political opponents’ imprisonment and press censorship. This decision sparked public outrage, fuelling the rise of opposition movements led by figures like Jai Prakash Narayan. The subsequent election saw the emergence of the Janata Party and marked the first electoral defeat of the Congress at the Centre.