Which three major developments took place in Indian politics during the last decade of the 20th century ? Describe.

OR

Briefly describe the story of Sikkim from the time of India’s Independence to its merger with India.

(i) End of Congress system- The defeat of the Congress Party in the election of 1989 marked the end of Congress dominance over the Indian party system. It could win only 197 seats in Lok Sabha.

(ii) Rise of Mandal Issue-The Mandal Issue started with the National Front Government’s decision to implement the recommendation of Mandal Commission that jobs in the Central government should be reserved for OBCs. This led to violent anti Mandal protests in different parts of the county.

(iii) New Economic Policy-This is known as the initiation of the structural adjustment programmes. Started by Rajiv Gandhi, these changes first become visible in 1991 and radically changed the direction that the Indian economy had pursued since independence .

(iv) Demolition of Babri Masjid or Ayodhya dispute- Ayodhya dispute started with the demolition of the disputed structure of Babri Masjid at Ayodhya in December 1992. This event symbolished and triggered various changes in politics of the country and intensified debate about the nature of Indian nationalism and secularism.
(v) Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi-The assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in May 1991 led to change in the leadership of the Congress. In the election of 1991, Congress emerged as the single largest party. The party chose P.V. Narsimha Raoas the Prime Minister of India .

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At the time of independence, Sikkim was not a part of India. It was a Protectorate of India. Its defence and foreign relations were looked after by India but not administrated by India. Monarchy system of Chogyal was unable to deal with the democratic aspirations of the people of Sikkim. Majority of Sikkim’s population was Nepalis and Lepcha- Bhutia community was in minority. The anti-Chogyal leaders of both the communities got support from the Government of India. The first democratic elections were held in 1974 were swept by Sikkim Congress which stood for greater integration with India. The Assembly first sought the status of a associate state and then in April, 1975 passed a resolution asking for full integration with India. The Indian parliament accepted this request immediately and Sikkim became the 22nd State of Indian Union.