NCERT introduces Emergency chapter in Class 9 textbook for first time

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced a chapter on the 1975-77 Emergency in a Class 9 Social Science textbook for the first time, describing the period as "one of the major challenges" faced by Indian democracy.

The topic has been included in the newly released textbook, “Understanding Society: India and Beyond,” as part of a chapter that examines the strengths and challenges of democracy in India. An NCERT official confirmed that no previous Class 9 textbook contained a dedicated section on the Emergency.

The inclusion comes as India marks 50 years since the Emergency was declared in June 1975. The textbook outlines the political developments that led to the decision and its impact on democratic institutions, civil liberties and citizens' rights.

The book states, "One of the major challenges to democracy in India was recorded when an Emergency was imposed in 1975-77. In the early 1970s, public dissatisfaction with the government led by Indira Gandhi was growing. Rising unemployment, inflation, and allegations of misgovernance led to widespread protests."

It further adds, "In June 1975, a National Emergency was imposed by the government on the grounds of internal disturbance. During this period, a majority of Fundamental Rights were suspended, the press was censored, and numerous political leaders and activists were arrested. Democratic institutions came under severe strain, and citizens' freedom was restricted."

The textbook also highlights the role of Jayaprakash Narayan in the movement against the Emergency, noting that mass protests led by the socialist leader mobilized students and citizens, particularly in Bihar and Gujarat.

The book says, "Mass movements led by Jayaprakash Narayan -a political leader and socialist thinker, popularly known as Lok Nayak-mobilised students and citizens, especially in Bihar and Gujarat. The Emergency was lifted in 1977, and general elections were held, allowing people to express their will through the ballot. The defeat of the ruling government demonstrated the strength of Indian democracy and highlighted the importance of Democracy."

The publication coincides with nationwide observances marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to those who opposed the period and defended democratic values.

In a social media post, he said, "Today, we pay homage to all those who steadfastly defended democratic values during one of the darkest chapters in India's history, the Emergency."

He further stated, "The Emergency was a direct assault on our Constitution. It witnessed the suspension of civil liberties, curbs on freedom of expression, arrests of political leaders, journalists, social workers and an assault on institutions that are the bedrock of our democracy."

The Prime Minister also said, "At the same time, it also revealed the extraordinary courage of countless citizens who refused to remain silent and upheld the ideals enshrined in our Constitution."

Apart from the Emergency, the revised textbook discusses challenges to democracy such as fake news, misinformation, poverty, regionalism, social discrimination and gender inequality.

It also introduces a new section titled "Democracy and You" to help students understand their role as citizens and connect classroom learning with democratic participation.

Other topics covered include democratic institutions, voter participation, electoral systems, the media's role as the "fourth pillar of democracy," grassroots governance through panchayats, women's voting rights and reservations in local bodies.