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Shashi Tharoor''s Sanjay Gandhi Flashback Post In New Provocation For Congress

In a recent social media post on X, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor offered a pointed critique of the controversial film *Emergency*, directed by and starring Kangana Ranaut. Tharoor's commentary focused on the film's portrayal of historical events surrounding the Emergency period in India (1975-1977), a time marked by the suspension of civil liberties under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. While Tharoor acknowledged the film's attempt to depict a dark chapter in India's democratic history, he raised significant concerns about its historical accuracy and the creative liberties taken in its storytelling. His remarks also included a personal reflection on the era, as well as a subtle jab at the film's narrative choices, particularly regarding the depiction of Sanjay Gandhi, Indira Gandhi’s son and a key political figure during the Emergency.

Tharoor began by framing the Emergency as a "shameful episode" in India's history, a period when democratic principles were undermined through censorship, mass arrests of political opponents, and forced sterilization campaigns, among other authoritarian measures. He emphasized that the Congress party, under whose rule the Emergency was imposed, has since distanced itself from that chapter, with leaders expressing regret over the excesses committed during those years. Tharoor himself noted that he lived through the Emergency as a young man and witnessed firsthand the erosion of freedoms that defined the time. He recalled the atmosphere of fear and repression, where dissent was stifled, and the press was heavily censored. His personal connection to the era lent weight to his critique, as he positioned himself not just as a political commentator but as someone with lived experience of the events in question.

Turning to the film itself, Tharoor expressed skepticism about its fidelity to historical facts. *Emergency*, which has stirred significant controversy since its trailer release, portrays Indira Gandhi’s decision to impose the Emergency and the subsequent political turmoil. Kangana Ranaut, who plays Indira Gandhi, has marketed the film as a dramatic retelling of one of the most tumultuous periods in Indian history. However, Tharoor argued that while the film may aim to educate younger generations about the Emergency, it risks distorting history by prioritizing cinematic drama over factual accuracy. He suggested that the film blends verifiable events with speculative or exaggerated elements, which could mislead audiences unfamiliar with the historical context. Tharoor did not delve into specific scenes or characterizations but implied that the film's narrative liberties could undermine its credibility as a historical document.

A notable aspect of Tharoor’s critique was his reference to Sanjay Gandhi, whom he described as Rahul Gandhi’s uncle. Sanjay Gandhi, Indira Gandhi’s younger son, was a polarizing figure during the Emergency, often blamed for many of the period’s most controversial policies, including the forced sterilization program aimed at population control. Tharoor’s mention of Sanjay in relation to Rahul Gandhi, the current Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, appeared to be a subtle reminder of the familial and political legacy tied to the Emergency. While Tharoor did not explicitly criticize Rahul Gandhi or connect him directly to the actions of his uncle, the reference seemed intended to contextualize the historical baggage that the Gandhi family carries within the Congress party. It also underscored the personal stakes for the family in how the Emergency is remembered and represented in popular culture.

Tharoor further elaborated on the broader implications of revisiting the Emergency through film. He acknowledged that art and cinema have a role in sparking discussions about history, especially for younger audiences who may not have direct knowledge of the events. However, he cautioned against the dangers of revisionism or sensationalism, which could skew public understanding of the past. For Tharoor, the Emergency remains a cautionary tale about the fragility of democracy and the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights. He urged viewers to approach the film with a critical eye, supplementing their viewing with independent research into the actual events of 1975-1977. This call for critical engagement reflects Tharoor’s broader concern about the intersection of history, politics, and popular media in shaping collective memory.

The Congress leader also touched on the political context surrounding the film’s release. *Emergency* has faced backlash from various quarters, including some within the Congress party, who view it as an attempt to malign the legacy of Indira Gandhi and, by extension, the party itself. Critics have accused the film of bias, arguing that it focuses disproportionately on the negative aspects of the Emergency without providing a balanced perspective on the political and social challenges of the time. Tharoor, while not aligning himself fully with these criticisms, seemed to echo the sentiment that the film’s portrayal might lack nuance. He suggested that the Emergency, while indefensible in many respects, was a product of complex circumstances, including internal security threats and political instability, which may not be adequately addressed in a dramatized retelling.

In reflecting on the Emergency’s legacy, Tharoor reiterated the importance of learning from history to prevent similar erosions of democracy in the future. He highlighted how the period tested India’s resilience as a democratic nation, ultimately leading to the restoration of democratic norms after the Emergency was lifted in 1977. The defeat of Indira Gandhi’s government in the subsequent elections, he noted, was a testament to the Indian electorate’s commitment to freedom and accountability. Tharoor’s commentary thus framed the Emergency not just as a historical event but as a living lesson for contemporary politics, where the balance between security and liberty remains a contentious issue.

Tharoor’s critique of *Emergency* also subtly addressed the role of Kangana Ranaut, who has been a vocal figure in Indian politics and often aligns herself with narratives critical of the Congress party. While Tharoor did not mention Ranaut by name, his remarks about the film’s potential biases could be read as an indirect commentary on the motivations behind its production. Ranaut, a sitting Member of Parliament from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has positioned the film as a bold exposé of a dark period in Indian history, often framing it in opposition to the Congress’s historical narrative. Tharoor’s response, therefore, can be seen as part of a larger political discourse about who gets to define history and how it is represented in the public sphere.

In conclusion, Shashi Tharoor’s take on *Emergency* encapsulates a blend of historical reflection, personal memory, and political analysis. He acknowledges the significance of revisiting the Emergency through cinema but warns against the pitfalls of historical distortion. His mention of Sanjay Gandhi in relation to Rahul Gandhi adds a layer of familial and political context to the discussion, reminding readers of the enduring legacy of the Gandhi family in Indian politics. Ultimately, Tharoor’s commentary serves as a call for critical engagement with history, urging audiences to look beyond the screen and seek a deeper understanding of the events that shaped India’s democratic journey. His nuanced critique reflects both a defense of democratic values and a recognition of the complexities surrounding one of the most controversial chapters in the nation’s past. By situating the film within a broader historical and political framework, Tharoor contributes to an ongoing conversation about memory, accountability, and the role of art in reckoning with difficult truths. His words resonate as both a cautionary note and a reminder of the importance of preserving the integrity of historical narratives in the face of creative interpretation.

Read the Full NDTV Article at:
[ https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/in-shashi-tharoors-emergency-take-mention-of-rahul-gandhis-uncle-sanjay-8853071 ]