The stage was now set for a big political confrontation. The opposition political parties led by Jayaprakash Narayan pressed for Indira Gandhi’s resignation and organised a massive demonstration in Delhi’s Ramlila grounds on 25 June 1975. Jayaprakash announced a nationwide satyagraha for her resignation and asked the army, the police and government employees not to obey “illegal and immoral orders”. This too threatened to bring the activities of the government to a standstill. The political mood of the country had turned against the Congress, more than ever before.

On the night of 25 June 1975, the Prime Minister recommended the imposition of an Emergency to President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. He issued the proclamation immediately.

Under what circumstances can Article 352 of the Constitution be invoked to declare a state of emergency?
1) In response to economic crises
2) In cases of political instability
3) In cases of external threat or internal disturbances
4) At the discretion of the President

3

Answer: In cases of external threat or internal disturbances
Explanation: Article 352 of the Constitution can be invoked to declare a state of emergency in cases of external threat or internal disturbances.

The response of the government was to declare a state of emergency. On 25 June 1975, the government declared that there was a threat of internal disturbances and therefore, it invoked Article 352 of the Constitution. Under the provision of this article the government could declare a state of emergency on grounds of external threat or a threat of internal disturbances. The government decided that a grave crisis had arisen which made the proclamation of a state of emergency necessary. Technically speaking this was within the powers of the government, for our Constitution provides for some special powers to the government once an emergency is declared.