A retired official from Tihar Jail has shared his experiences during the 1975 Emergency in India, revealing how jail staff were initially misinformed about the identity of new detainees. They were told these individuals were "dangerous extremists," but in reality, they were prominent national leaders.

The official recounted the emotional challenge of detaining familiar faces, including his own former school teacher. He highlighted the strict discipline maintained within the jail and the covert deployment of undercover probe agency officers who monitored both inmates and staff. Breaches of confidentiality carried severe consequences, and surveillance extended even to food deliveries.

During this period, Tihar Jail held approximately 1,900 detainees, including political prisoners. Authorities categorized these prisoners to manage the influx of high-profile leaders, ensuring they received relatively comfortable conditions within the established jail regulations. The Emergency, declared by Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, concluded on March 21, 1977.