Maharashtra Government to Honour MISA Prisoners at Official Events
The Maharashtra government has announced a significant initiative to recognize and honour individuals who served prison terms under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977. These former prisoners will be invited as special guests to official programmes on Republic Day, Maharashtra Day, and Independence Day at various administrative levels across the state.
Statewide Implementation Through Government Resolution
This decision applies across all of Maharashtra and has taken effect following a recent government resolution that came into force. The general administration department has issued a circular to divisional commissioners and district collectors, instructing them to respectfully invite those who served prison terms for opposing the Emergency declaration. This gesture serves as a mark of honour for their resistance during a challenging period in India's democratic history.
Historical Context of the Emergency Period
The Emergency was declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, citing 'internal disturbance' as the justification. During this period, which lasted until 1977, the government imposed severe restrictions on civil liberties and detained a large number of individuals under MISA. The act was used extensively to limit political opposition and suppress dissent, creating a significant chapter in India's democratic journey.
Integration with Existing Honorarium Scheme
This new initiative complements the Maharashtra government's existing Emergency Honorarium Scheme, which was approved last year with a budget of ₹28.12 crore. The scheme provides financial recognition to individuals imprisoned during the Emergency period. According to government data, Nagpur has emerged as a significant contributor to this historical resistance, with 402 recipients accounting for ₹3.43 crore in disbursements. This places Nagpur third in the state, following Pune and Buldhana, highlighting its prominent role in the democratic opposition to the Emergency.
Budgetary Provisions and Implementation Timeline
The government resolution dated May 30, 2025, outlines the financial framework supporting these initiatives. The state government has approved a budgetary provision of ₹55.5 crore for the 2025–26 fiscal year. Of this amount, ₹28.12 crore has been specifically earmarked for distribution under the Emergency Honorarium Scheme from April 2025 to January 2026. This substantial allocation demonstrates the government's commitment to recognizing the sacrifices made by those who stood against the Emergency restrictions.
Event Participation and Protocol
Traditionally, official events such as Republic Day, Maharashtra Day, and Independence Day celebrations in Maharashtra have included invitations to people's representatives, freedom fighters, and other dignitaries. The inclusion of MISA prisoners as honoured guests represents an expansion of this protocol, acknowledging their specific contribution to preserving democratic values during a period of constitutional crisis. The invitations will extend to programmes organized at district, taluka, and village levels, ensuring widespread recognition across the state.
