Rakesh Bharti: A Forgotten Hero of the Emergency Era
The Dark Chapter of the Emergency
Shrey Awasthi
The Emergency period from 1975 to 1977 in India serves as a stark reminder of how democracy can be undermined. Initiated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, this era was characterized by oppression, censorship, unlawful detentions, and the suppression of constitutional rights.
Unsung Heroes of Resistance
While numerous leaders are celebrated for their opposition, countless unsung heroes sparked the flame of resistance in rural areas. One such individual is Rakesh Bharti from Shahpur in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district.
When the Emergency was declared, Rakesh Bharti opted for action over silence. Together with the late former minister Praveen Sharma, he went underground to resist the regime, becoming a key figure in the anti-Emergency movement. On August 21, 1975, both were apprehended and subjected to a 16-day police remand—spending eight days in Shahpur followed by another eight in Dharamshala. This was merely the beginning of their ordeal.
Facing Brutality
In Dharamshala, they joined other detainees, including Kamal Padha, Keshav Shridhar, and Ashok Katoch, who had already been arrested. The situation worsened as police brutality intensified. Under the command of SHO Gurdat Singh, the authorities employed severe torture techniques, seeking information about underground RSS workers and the secret locations of printing presses for anti-Emergency literature.
Despite the torment, Rakesh Bharti and his companions had no such information to divulge. They endured both physical and mental anguish with unwavering resolve, refusing to betray their comrades or the democratic ideals they stood for.
Continued Resistance
On September 5, they were transferred to jail, and it wasn't until December 1975 that they were released on bail through the efforts of the RSS.
Even after enduring custodial torture, Rakesh Bharti remained steadfast. On January 15, 1976, he, along with Kamal Padha, Sunil Manocha, the late Bishamber Dutt, and the late Rajendra Agarwal, organized a public protest against Indira Gandhi, displaying hoardings and vocally opposing the dictatorship. They reignited the spirit of resistance across Himachal Pradesh.
Imprisonment and Resilience
That very night, they were arrested again. However, when brought before the court, the judge denied further police remand and ordered their immediate incarceration, where they remained until October 1976. Inside the prison, these young men refused to succumb to despair.
Instead, they embraced learning and resilience. The RSS facilitated access to biographies of revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Rajguru, who had fought against colonial oppression. Inspired by these stories, Rakesh Bharti and his fellow patriots maintained their courage and commitment to their ideals.
A Legacy of Courage
“Rakesh Bharti's story is not merely a historical account; it serves as a reflection for today's youth. In an era where political engagement is often overshadowed by indifference, his life illustrates that freedom requires vigilance, sacrifice, and bravery.
During a time when constitutional values were under siege, a young man from a small town chose to stand against a formidable regime—not for recognition or power, but for the essence of India. He lacked media attention, social media platforms, or fame, yet he possessed unwavering conviction,” remarked a BJP leader from Shahpur.