Indira Gandhi

About

Indira Gandhi was a pivotal figure in Indian politics, serving as the country's first female Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Born on November 19, 1917, in Allahabad, she was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister. Gandhi joined the Congress Party in 1938 and rose through its ranks, becoming party president in 1959. Her leadership was marked by significant events, including the 1971 war with Pakistan, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, and the initiation of India's nuclear program. Gandhi's tenure was also marred by controversy, including the declaration of a national emergency in 1975, which led to widespread political repression. Despite losing power in 1977, she returned to office in 1980. Her later years were marked by a confrontation with Sikh separatists, culminating in the military operation at the Golden Temple, which ultimately led to her assassination by Sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984. Gandhi's legacy remains complex, reflecting both her strong leadership and the challenges she faced in shaping India's political landscape.