Today marks the 50th anniversary of the declaration of the Emergency in India, which was proclaimed on June 25, 1975. In remembrance of this significant occasion, Silver Oak University hosted a mock parliament session that brought together esteemed guests and students to reflect on this pivotal moment in Indian history.
The event featured the Honorable Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, who currently oversees two ministries: the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The visit commenced with a grand welcome parade led by our NSS students. Mr. Janak P. Khandwala, Vice President of Silver Oak University, presented Dr. Mandaviya with a bouquet as a gesture of welcome. This was followed by a symbolic tree plantation ceremony, which was conducted by the Honourable Minister on the university campus.
Dr. Mandaviya then inaugurated and toured the Exhibition-cum-Poster Showcase Gallery, located on the ground floor of the EB extension building, which was dedicated to the Emergency of 1975. This exhibition powerfully illustrated the authoritarian rule of that period and its profound impact on Indian democracy.
The mock parliament session commenced with a Tilak Ceremony for all esteemed guests, followed by a lamp-lighting ceremony and prayers to Lord Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. The Aryabhatta Hall was filled with energy as participants engaged in the mock parliament session. Mrs Sweta J. Khandwala, Vice President (Academic) at Silver Oak University, addressed the attendees, emphasising the significance of the Emergency Day declaration. This was followed by an inaugural speech from Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, who reflected on the Emergency of 1975 and underscored the power of youth in shaping the future.
The parliamentary session featured the arrival of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, with both the ruling and opposition parties engaging in a robust discussion about the repercussions and implications of the Emergency. A total of 80+ students and faculty members participated, passionately presenting arguments from both sides.
The inaugural session was temporarily paused for a lunch break, after which the concluding part of the mock parliament session was honoured by the presence of Shri Jagdish Vishwakarma, the current Minister of State (Government of Gujarat).
This event not only commemorates a significant chapter in India’s history but also serves as a platform for dialogue and reflection on the values of democracy and the role of youth in safeguarding it.
