Mizoram Observes First-Ever ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ to Mark 50 Years Since Emergency

Chief Minister Lalduhoma underscores constitutional safeguards for Mizoram and warns against misuse of amendments

Aizawl – For the first time, Samvidhan Hatya Diwas (Constitution Murder Day) was observed in India under the initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. In Mizoram, the event was organized by the Department of Art & Culture at the Vaivakawn Cultural Centre. Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while Art & Culture Minister Pu C. Lalsawivunga was present as the Special Guest.

In his keynote address, Chief Minister Lalduhoma stated that the observance of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas serves as a reminder of the need to protect and reaffirm our commitment to democracy, constitutional values, and the rule of law. He highlighted how the Indian Constitution provides robust protection for the identity, land, and culture of the Mizo people through safeguards such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Article 371(G). These provisions, he noted, are essential for ensuring constitutional autonomy for Mizoram and have played a crucial role in preserving the state’s unique identity.

He elaborated that the Eastern Bengal Frontier Regulation Act of 1873, under which the Inner Line Regulation is enforced, effectively restricts the settlement and land ownership rights of non-tribals in Mizoram. This has been a vital mechanism in protecting the interests of the indigenous population.

While acknowledging the necessity and inevitability of constitutional amendments over time — with over 106 amendments enacted so far — the Chief Minister cautioned against their misuse for political ends. Referring to the 42nd Constitutional Amendment enacted during the Emergency in 1975, he noted how it had replaced the term “internal disturbance” with “armed rebellion” in Article 352, thereby limiting the scope for arbitrary imposition of emergency. While calling this change “beneficial,” he warned that frequent and politically motivated amendments risk undermining democratic principles and federal balance.

Lalduhoma added that the current administration has chosen to mark this day as a peaceful act of dissent against authoritarian tendencies and to reaffirm its vision for a more participatory and transparent democracy.

Speaking at the event, Art & Culture Minister Pu C. Lalsawivunga reiterated that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. He emphasized the shared responsibility of both the government and the people in upholding and defending its values. He particularly underscored the importance of preserving the special constitutional provisions granted to Mizoram, which continue to protect the cultural and political integrity of the state.

Secretary of the Department of Art & Culture, Pi Zodingpuii, expressed gratitude to the attendees and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to observing Samvidhan Hatya Diwas annually going forward. She noted that the day serves both as a historical reflection and a civic call to action.

The observance marks the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, under Article 352 of the Constitution, citing “internal disturbances.” The Emergency, which lasted for over 21 months, is widely regarded as a period of curtailed civil liberties and centralization of power.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Pi Carol VLMS Dawngkimi, Director of the Department of Art & Culture.