The 1975 Emergency has once again become the centre of political discussion as Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as one of the darkest chapters in India's democratic history while marking its anniversary. Recalling the events that followed the proclamation of Emergency on June 25, 1975, PM Modi said the period represented a direct assault on the Constitution and democratic values. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister paid tribute to those who resisted authoritarianism and defended democracy during one of the most controversial phases of independent India. The Emergency, imposed under Article 352 on the grounds of "internal disturbance," remained in force until 1977. The period witnessed the suspension of civil liberties, restrictions on freedom of expression, arrests of opposition leaders, and sweeping powers exercised by the government under then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The Centre marked the anniversary as "Samvidhan Hatya Diwas," with several senior leaders reflecting on the lessons of the Emergency era. WATCH

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a sharp response to European criticism during a high-profile geopolitical discussion in Finland. Responding to questions over India's purchase of Russian oil, Jaishankar highlighted what he described as a contradiction in Europe's position, pointing out that European weapons have been used against India while no European country has ever been attacked with Indian weapons. The minister defended India's energy policy, arguing that decisions are driven by national interest, affordability and energy security. He also noted that changes in global energy markets after the Russia-Ukraine conflict forced India to diversify its sourcing strategy.