The Emergency period declared in India in 1975 is remembered as one of the most controversial phases in the country’s post-independence history. During this time, civil liberties were suspended, political opponents were jailed without trial, and press freedom was curtailed. Among those who opposed the Emergency and evaded arrest through underground resistance was Narendra Modi, who would decades later become the Prime Minister of India.
Modi, who was then a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak, played an active role in the resistance network. According to accounts shared by him in interviews and writings, he had to constantly move between locations and remain in disguise to avoid being arrested by the authorities.
He has stated that one of the first disguises he adopted was that of a ‘sanyasi’ or Hindu monk, wearing saffron robes and changing his mannerisms to blend into temple settings. This allowed him to move freely and avoid suspicion while carrying out tasks such as delivering messages and coordinating underground meetings.
Later, Modi reportedly disguised himself as a Sikh man, wearing a turban and growing a beard to mask his identity. This change in appearance helped him travel undetected by train and bus across states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Delhi, where surveillance on opposition workers was intense.
These transformations were not merely cosmetic. According to sources close to Modi during that time, he also altered his speech, behavior, and body language to avoid detection. “He was committed to the cause and took great personal risk,” said one associate in an earlier interview with state media.
Modi’s involvement in the underground movement included distributing pamphlets, organizing covert meetings, and maintaining communication lines among leaders who had gone into hiding or were already imprisoned. He was reportedly instrumental in assisting senior leaders in evading capture and ensuring the continuity of resistance efforts during the Emergency.
The Emergency was imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, and lasted until March 21, 1977. During this period, political dissent was suppressed through arrests, censorship, and constitutional amendments that limited civil rights.
Modi's account adds to the many personal stories of courage and defiance shared by individuals who resisted authoritarian measures during that period. While some critics have questioned certain details of these narratives, supporters view Modi’s experience as a reflection of his lifelong commitment to democratic values and political activism.
Today, Modi and his party frequently invoke the Emergency to draw attention to the importance of constitutional freedoms and the dangers of authoritarian governance. His personal recollections serve as both a historical account and a political message underscoring the need for constant vigilance in preserving democracy.
As the nation reflects on the legacy of the Emergency, stories like these highlight the diverse roles played by individuals—both known and unsung—in defending democratic ideals during one of India’s most trying times.
