Indira Gandhi (1917-1984) was the Prime Minister of India for three consecutive terms from 1966 to 1977 and for a fourth term from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. She was the first and to date, the only female Prime Minister of India. She was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister.
Gandhi was a key leader in
the Indian National Congress party and played a major role in Indian politics
both before and after her tenure as Prime Minister. She is known for her strong
leadership during a time of political and social turmoil in India, including
her decision to nationalize the country's banks and her efforts to address
poverty and inequality. She also led India to victory in the 1971 Bangladesh
War, which led to the creation of independent Bangladesh.
However, her premiership
was also marked by controversy and criticism, particularly in relation to her
declaration of a state of emergency in 1975, during which civil liberties were
suspended and political opponents were arrested and tortured.
She was assassinated by two of her own bodyguards on October 31, 1984. Her death led to widespread riots and violence, particularly against the Sikh community.
Indira Gandhi's personal
life was marked by both personal and political struggles. She was married to
Feroze Gandhi, with whom she had two sons, Rajiv and Sanjay. Her relationship
with her husband was strained and they eventually separated, though they never
divorced.
Her political career was heavily influenced by her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was India's first prime minister and a leading figure in the Indian independence movement. She served
as an aide to her father during his tenure as prime minister and was elected to the Indian parliament in 1964.
Throughout her political career, Gandhi faced numerous challenges and controversies, including allegations of corruption and abuse of power. Despite this, she remained a popular and charismatic leader, particularly among the poor and marginalized.
Gandhi's personal life was marked by a deep commitment to public service and a strong sense of duty to her country. She was known for her intelligence, determination, and political savvy, as well as her charisma and personal warmth.