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Akhilesh Yadav likens Delhi protest crackdown to Emergency, stirs political debate

Published July 28, 2026 at 10:33 AM UTC

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Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has triggered a fresh political storm by comparing the police action during a protest in Delhi to the Emergency period of 1975–77. Yadav pointed to the use of tear gas and force against demonstrators, calling it a sign of authoritarianism. The protest, which drew hundreds of participants, was dispersed by police using water cannons and tear gas. Yadav's remarks have drawn sharp reactions from both ruling party leaders and opposition figures. The Emergency, imposed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, is remembered as a dark chapter in Indian democracy when civil liberties were suspended and thousands were detained. Critics of the government argue that such comparisons are exaggerated, while supporters of the protest say the heavy-handed response raises legitimate concerns about democratic freedoms. The incident adds to ongoing debates about the state of dissent in India, with the government defending law and order actions as necessary for public safety. Political analysts say the controversy could further polarize opinion ahead of upcoming elections. Both sides are expected to continue trading barbs over the appropriateness of the comparison and the police's conduct.