New Delhi — A new book released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, titled “The Emergency Diaries: Years That Forged a Leader”, offers a revealing look into Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s covert operations during the dark days of India’s Emergency (1975–77). Authored by the Bluekraft Digital Foundation, the book presents a series of anecdotes shared by close associates and Sangh Parivar members who worked alongside Modi during the 21-month suspension of civil liberties under then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The book paints a portrait of a young Modi as a master of disguise and strategic planning, operating in secrecy to evade arrest and maintain underground resistance efforts.
A Leader in Hiding
One of the standout revelations is Modi’s insistence on only staying in safe houses with multiple escape routes. “Modi carefully selected the houses where clandestine meetings were to be held,” the book notes. “In case of a police raid, there was always a clear escape strategy in place.” In one instance, Modi chose a house with four exit doors to ensure that, even if two were compromised, he and his associates could flee.
These secret gatherings were internally code-named “Chandan ka Karyakram” by Modi. To avoid drawing suspicion, he even advised scattering shoes and slippers outside meeting locations in a disorganized manner. “If shoes are arranged too neatly, it gives away the presence of a Sangh meeting,” the book quotes him as warning.
A Master of Disguise
Modi’s use of disguise was both elaborate and effective. The book recounts numerous instances where he transformed himself into a Sikh (Sardarji), a Swamiji, a Pathan, and even an incense stick vendor to avoid detection. Narendra Modi's colleagues abroad sent photocopies of 'Satyavani' and other newspapers published internationally that featured articles opposing the #DarkDaysOfEmergency. He would ensure copies of those materials were prepared and then deliver them to the jails. Additionally,… pic.twitter.com/vz1aSblFCj
On one occasion, while disguised as a Sikh, Modi hailed an auto-rickshaw—only to find the driver was also a Sikh. A casual conversation in Punjabi followed, putting Modi’s cover at risk. “He maintained composure and explained in broken Punjabi, ‘I was born in Gujarat and have grown up here.’ His self-confidence saved him that day,” the book states.
Modi also entered jails dressed as a Swamiji to meet with incarcerated activists. His disguises were so effective that even close associates reportedly failed to recognize him.
Evading Surveillance, Sustaining the Movement
Modi’s name had by then entered police dossiers, making his movements increasingly perilous. Nevertheless, he continued to guide Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) operations, encouraging workers to maintain contact with grassroots supporters despite the ban on shakhas (local RSS units).
With all mainstream newspapers under censorship and alternate information channels stifled, the weekly magazine Panchjanya became a crucial lifeline. Modi instructed that it be discreetly delivered to key workers. “Even when shakhas were shut, Modi ensured communication lines remained open,” the book explains.
A Railway Network of Resistance
Recognizing the risk of using India’s postal service, Modi collaborated with senior RSS figures Nath Zagda and Vasant Gajendragadkar to launch an innovative distribution strategy via railways. “He suggested loading anti-Emergency material onto trains bound for cities like Patna, Kolkata, Madras, and Lucknow,” the book says. “The railways offered a lower risk of interception.”
In addition to political pamphlets and booklets, Modi recommended placing material in barber shops and other local businesses to discreetly spread information. “He believed people were more likely to read material in public places than at home,” the book notes.
Supporting the Families of the Imprisoned
Beyond strategic operations, the book highlights Modi’s efforts to support the families of imprisoned activists. He reportedly enlisted help from local business leaders to arrange food supplies and provisions for families left behind.
“Modi kept track of every family,” the book records. “He would ask how many children they had, whether they had enough to eat. He believed in sustaining hope even during the darkest times.”
Forging Leadership in Adversity
The Emergency Diaries positions Modi’s underground resistance not merely as survival tactics, but as formative leadership. “These experiences forged the resilience, strategic mindset, and national commitment that would later define his political career,” the authors argue.
While much has been written about Modi’s rise to national leadership, this book attempts to spotlight the roots of his activism during a period when democracy was suspended and dissent was dangerous. Through a mix of personal recollections and little-known episodes, it offers a rare glimpse into the early crucible of a leader shaped by secrecy, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in grassroots mobilisation.
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