Indira Gandhi, the daughter of India's inaugural prime minister, was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards in 1984. Her tenure as prime minister was marked by significant economic and social changes, as well as allegations of authoritarianism. She played a key role in Indian politics for 17 years and was both admired and criticized for her leadership style.
Key Points
Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards in 1984.
She served as India's prime minister for three consecutive terms and a fourth term from 1980 until her assassination.
Her leadership was marked by economic and social changes, as well as allegations of authoritarianism.
Pros
Indira Gandhi played a significant role in Indian politics and was a trailblazer for women in the country.
Under her leadership, India achieved self-reliance and economic progress, becoming a nation of grain surplus.
Cons
Her tenure was marred by increasing tensions with Sikh separatists, culminating in Operation Blue Star, which led to her assassination.
Gandhi faced criticism for her authoritarian approach to governance.