Rajiv Gandhi

ModernPoliticianIndia1944 — ?

Youngest prime minister of India.

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Quick Facts

Born

1944

Country

India

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)38

Political (20%)45

Influence (20%)60

Legacy (20%)47

Leadership (15%)40

Strategy (15%)38

Total Score47.1

Rajiv Gandhi — Complete Timeline

1984 AD

Became Prime Minister of IndiaPolitical Action◆ Major

After the assassination of his mother, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi was appointed Prime Minister. He was the youngest person to hold the office, at age 40.

Prime MinisterSuccessionIndia

Impact: national

Bhopal Gas Tragedy ResponsePolitical Action◆ Major

Rajiv Gandhi's government faced the aftermath of the Bhopal gas leak, the world's worst industrial disaster. The government's response, including compensation and legal action against Union Carbide, was criticized as inadequate.

DisasterIndustrial AccidentCriticism

Impact: nationaltragic

1985 AD

Shah Bano Case ControversyPolitical Action◆ Major

Rajiv Gandhi's government overturned a Supreme Court ruling granting alimony to a divorced Muslim woman, passing the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act. This was seen as pandering to conservative Muslim leaders and sparked debate on secularism.

Muslim LawSecularismWomen's Rights

Impact: national

1991 AD

Assassinated by LTTEPolitical Action

Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. His death was a major blow to Indian politics.

AssassinationLTTETamil Nadu

Impact: nationaltragic