In the evening after the Emergency was declared in India, a small group of socialists gathered in a coffee house in Connaught Place, New Delhi. Their goal was to plan their next political moves in a challenging environment. Among them was Rajkumar Jain, who, at 29, was a passionate supporter of the famous socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia.
Just a day earlier, on June 25, 1975, Jain had participated in a significant rally at Ramlila ground, where Jayaprakash Narayan urged the crowd to prepare for imprisonment in their fight against the government. Jain proudly raised both his hands in agreement, a moment he still remembers vividly.
Today, nearly 80 years old, Jain recalls those days as if they were a thrilling love story. He reflects on how difficult it was to continue their work secretly. The police were quick to arrest anyone opposing the government; they had even visited Jain’s family home looking for him. His family, dedicated to their religious beliefs and running a small business, disapproved of his political involvement, but Jain was drawn to Lohia’s ideals of democratic socialism as a teenager.
In the 1960s, places like Gandhi Park became a hub for political discussions. People from various parties, including Jan Sangh (the predecessor of BJP), Congress, and Socialists would debate current issues. Jain admired Lohia’s bold stance on women’s rights and wealth distribution, resonating deeply with his mantra of social equality.
After enrolling at Delhi University in 1966, Jain joined the Samyukta Socialist Party and became active in student politics. He often protested against rising prices and workers’ rights, to the point where he endured injuries and frequent jail time.
After the Emergency began, Jain was arrested on the university campus. He spent 19 months in prison, a much harsher environment than he had experienced before. He remembers the jailer’s harsh words: “You haven’t come in under normal law, but under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA).” This law allowed the government to detain people without trial, and during the Emergency, it was used extensively.
In prison, Jain shared a cell with fellow socialists and notable figures, bonding over their struggles. They managed to share moments of solidarity, boosting one another’s spirits despite the dire conditions. The lack of privacy was overwhelming, with no proper facilities available.
Communication was restricted, but good news arrived through a letter confirming Jain’s job as a lecturer. Time passed with exercises, discussions, and reading various books, which helped him maintain hope. They often shouted revolutionary slogans, finding strength in their unity.
Once the Emergency was lifted, Jain remembers the atmosphere was still tinged with fear. His first public meeting after his release was marked by cautious attendance from the crowd, slowly moving closer as they began to listen.
In 1977, Jain was elected to the Delhi Metropolitan Council and continued his life dedicated to teaching and social reform until his retirement in 2011. Now, living in Delhi, he reflects on those transformative years with a sense of purpose, holding onto the values instilled in him by leaders he admired. Despite the changing political landscape, he remains committed to the principles of democratic socialism.
