- By Imran Zafar
- Thu, 27 Jun 2024 12:31 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced on Wednesday that a chapter on the 1975-77 Emergency period in the country, highlighting both the excesses and the resistance against it, will be included in the school curriculum. This move aims to educate the younger generation about the struggles during the Emergency, which marked its 50th anniversary on June 25, CM Mohan Yadav said.
The chief minister made the announcement while addressing a gathering of "Loktantra Senanis" (democracy fighters) who opposed the Emergency, a period known for the suspension of civil liberties, suppression of dissent and erosion of democratic principles.
Several new facilities were introduced to honour the contributions of these ''democracy fighters''. Loktantra Senanis will now enjoy a 50 per cent discount on stays in government circuit and rest houses for up to three days. They will also receive toll fee exemptions on highways. The chief minister assured that expenses for treatments under the Ayushman health card scheme would be reimbursed within three months by the respective collectors.
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In cases of serious health issues, air ambulances will be available to transport ''democracy fighters'' to major hospitals or other metros for treatment. Additionally, under the state's air taxi service, they will receive a 25 per cent discount on fares.
State honours will be accorded for the last rites of Loktantra Senanis, with the funeral assistance amount being increased from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. Furthermore, employment opportunities will be provided to their family members, including necessary training for setting up industries or business ventures.
On June 25, 1975, then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared Emergency in India, leading to the imprisonment of opposition leaders and dissidents and the imposition of press censorship. The new curriculum aims to shed light on these dark times and the resilience shown by those who fought against it.