[Mukhti]

Summary

This one-page statement, headed “MUKTI” and dated 26 June 1976, describes the extraordinary conditions prevailing in India during the Emergency. It argues that thousands have been imprisoned without criminal charges, apart from alleged political opposition to the ruling party, while many lower-level political workers remain in jail. It presents three examples: the alleged torture and prolonged detention of Lawrence Fernandes under MISA; the neglect of Mandakini Dave, a young woman imprisoned in Gujarat; and the detention of relatives and associates in attempts to apprehend political opponents.

The statement frames these cases as evidence that excessive concentration of power produces abuse, fear, and the erosion of democratic safeguards. It warns that public anger and resentment may eventually erupt, argues that press freedom and other natural checks have been suppressed, and calls on ordinary citizens to form discussion groups in workplaces, institutions, professions, and neighbourhoods to understand events and plan for the future.

Key points

• The statement reports imprisonment without criminal charges during the Emergency, particularly of people suspected of political opposition.
• It cites the alleged beating, interrogation, physical injury, and mental deterioration of Lawrence Fernandes while detained under MISA.
• It describes the detention and poor treatment of Mandakini Dave in a Gujarat jail.
• It presents the detention of relatives as a method used to apprehend political suspects.
• It argues that concentrated and unchecked power inevitably produces abuse.
• It warns that suppressed public anger may lead to a more violent and damaging backlash.
• It calls for citizens to create local discussion groups to document the situation and plan for the future.