LUCKNOW: On the 25th of June, we commemorated the 48th anniversary of The Emergency, which was declared by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi back in 1975. In a meeting, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the significance of this date as a 'black day' in Indian democracy. In a symbolic gesture, he renamed a major road in Noida as Ramnath Goenka Marg, highlighting Goenka's unwavering dedication to media freedom and democracy during the Emergency.
Adityanath shared these sentiments while officially unveiling the new name for the road, which was previously known as Amaltash Road. This busy route connects Rajnigandha Chowk in Sector 16 to Sector 12 and falls under the jurisdiction of the local Noida Authority, which operates under the Uttar Pradesh government.
During his address, Adityanath took a moment to remember and pay tribute to those who played a crucial role in restoring democracy during the Emergency period, which lasted until 1977.
"The date of June 25, 1975, is etched in the annals of Indian democracy as the Black Day. However, it was during this challenging time that India witnessed the indomitable spirit and sacrifices of those who risked everything to safeguard democracy and media freedom. They demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fight for democracy," he affirmed.
"Today holds significant importance as the Goenka family contributed greatly to the preservation of democracy and established the principles that have guided the media group since its inception. Moreover, Ramnath Goenka ji was aligned with the same nationalist mission that we stand for," he added.
The chief minister further expressed, "This is an emotional day for me, as it represents a crucial moment in our ongoing struggle to preserve democracy. It is not a mere coincidence that the road is being named after Ramnath Goenka today, on June 25, precisely 48 years later." "I assure you with utmost sincerity that we should work collaboratively to support the media, the fourth pillar of democracy. Together, we can uphold its integrity," Adityanath emphasized.
During his address, CM Adityanath fondly recalled Ramnath Goenka's remarkable contributions in championing media freedom and democracy during the Emergency. Goenka, born in 1904 and passed away in 1991, left an indelible mark on the media landscape.
"Today, it fills me with immense pride to inaugurate this road in Noida, named after him. Noida is known as the financial capital of Uttar Pradesh, and on this occasion, I humbly pay tribute to all those 'fighters of democracy,' including Goenka, who fearlessly fought for democracy in our nation," expressed the Uttar Pradesh chief minister.
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