Shimla, April 4- Emergency prisoners denounce Himachal Government’s move to stop ‘Loktantra Prahari samman rashi’
The recent move of the Himachal Pradesh Government to stop the Loktantra Prahari Samman Rashi, a pension scheme for those imprisoned during the emergency in 1975, has sparked a wave of reactions from BJP leaders across the state.
Former Chief Minister Shanta Kumar expressed his disappointment and anger towards the current government of Himachal Pradesh.
In a statement, he appeared particularly upset about the government’s treatment of those who went to jail during the emergency, including himself. He felt that the government’s decision to refer to their pension as a “bailout” was disrespectful and diminished their sacrifices for the country’s democracy.
Shanta Kumar also highlights the severity of the emergency period in India’s history, stating that it was a dark chapter where basic human rights were abolished. Thousands of people, including notable leaders such as Jayaprakash Narayan, Morarji Desai, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, were imprisoned without appeal. He noted that the emergency was declared to save the chair of one leader and that the entire country suffered.
The former Chief Minister also emphasizes that those who went to jail during the emergency did not do so for honour or pension but to protect ‘democracy’. He believes that referring to their pension as a “bailout” and calling them “loved ones” is insulting to their sacrifices and the country.
Shanta Kumar called for an apology from the government for the injustice done to those who went to jail during the emergency, stating that they do not want respect or pension but simply an acknowledgement of their sacrifices. He also noted that this disrespect has reopened the wounds of the torture and hardships they faced during the emergency.
Pertinent to mention that the BJP stalwart leader has been known for his open stands on various issues. The former CM has not even spared his own party while expressing his thoughts freely through social media many times.
Also read: Former CM, BJP leader Shanta Kumar back-pats Sukhu govt for levy of water cess on HPPs
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
