Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his gratitude over the release of a new book titled “The Emergency Diaries — Years that Forged a Leader”, which documents his experiences during the Emergency period (1975–1977) and his involvement in the anti-Emergency movement as a young Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak.
The book, published by BlueKraft Digital Foundation, is set to be unveiled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency’s imposition. It explores Modi’s underground role during one of the most turbulent periods in India’s democratic history under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi stated, “When the Emergency was imposed, I was a young RSS Pracharak. The anti-Emergency movement was a learning experience for me. It reaffirmed the vitality of preserving our democratic framework.” He added that those years allowed him to learn from people across the political spectrum.
Calling the book a collection of memories from that time, PM Modi noted that the foreword has been penned by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, a prominent figure in the anti-Emergency resistance. “It brought back many memories from that time,” Modi wrote.
Encouraging citizens to share their own experiences from the Emergency, he said, “I call upon all those who remember those dark days of the Emergency or those whose families suffered during that time to share their experiences on social media. It will create awareness among the youth of the shameful time from 1975 to 1977.”
According to BlueKraft, the book provides an in-depth account of Modi’s efforts during the Emergency, highlighting how he evaded arrest, operated underground, distributed banned literature, organised secret meetings, and helped sustain morale during widespread repression.
Drawing on first-person accounts from Modi’s close associates, excerpts from his memoir Sangharsh Ma Gujarat, and archival materials, The Emergency Diaries presents a rare look into the formative years of a man who would become India’s Prime Minister.
BlueKraft Digital Foundation stated on X, “The book delves into the compelling role that Narendra Modi played in the fight against the Emergency. Based on first-person anecdotes from associates who worked with young Modi, the book creates new scholarship on the formative years of a young man who would give it his all in the fight against tyranny.”
The book’s introduction sets the tone by describing the Emergency as a time when “democracy was in captivity.” It positions Modi as part of a covert resistance network that worked tirelessly to resist state-imposed censorship and fear.
According to the publishers, the book sheds light on Modi’s “clandestine operations, narrow escapes, and unwavering commitment to restoring democracy,” portraying his journey as one marked by resilience, courage, and dedication to constitutional ideals.
Describing the work as a tribute to those who stood against oppression, BlueKraft adds that the book highlights “how the resolve of the masses, led by diligent young karyakartas like Modi, shaped one of the most important movements that reshaped a nation’s destiny.”
