C Rajagopalachari, affectionately known as Rajaji, was a significant figure in Indian politics. He served as a senior leader in the Indian National Congress and became the last Governor-General of independent India, being the first Indian to assume this prestigious role. Rajaji was also a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, offering counsel and support during critical moments in India's struggle for independence.
The Swatantra Party was established in 1959, founded by C Rajagopalachari as a counter to the socialist policies advocated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Rajaji believed that the government's heavy-handed approach to economic management was detrimental to individual freedoms and economic growth. Thus, the Swatantra Party emerged as a proponent of a market-driven economy, promoting less government intervention and advocating for private enterprise.
The foundational beliefs of the Swatantra Party centered around the principles of individual liberty and minimal government interference in economic matters. The party argued that citizens should have the right to own property, pursue their professions, and engage in contracts without excessive state involvement. This libertarian approach aimed to foster an environment where entrepreneurship could thrive.
Among the prominent figures associated with the Swatantra Party were Minoo Masani, Piloo Mody, K M Munshi, and N G Ranga. The party attracted a diverse membership, including many former royals and landlords who held influence in rural regions. Leaders from various ideological backgrounds, including conservatives and business-minded individuals, found a home in the party, contributing to its unique perspective on governance.
The Swatantra Party experienced notable electoral success during the 1960s. In the 1962 general elections, the party secured 18 Lok Sabha seats. Its popularity continued to rise, and in the 1967 elections, it emerged as the second-largest opposition party, winning 44 seats. The party's strongest support was concentrated in states such as Bihar, Rajasthan, Odisha, and Gujarat, where its message resonated with voters.
The decline of the Swatantra Party began in the early 1970s, primarily influenced by a shifting political landscape and the rise of new political forces. The party struggled to maintain relevance amid Indira Gandhi's populist policies and the internal divisions within the Congress Party. Ultimately, the Swatantra Party disbanded in 1974, fifteen years after its inception, led by Piloo Modi, as declining electoral performance and a lack of direction followed Rajaji's death in 1972. The remaining members subsequently merged with the Bharatiya Lok Dal.
Q1. Who was C Rajagopalachari?
Answer: C Rajagopalachari, known as Rajaji, was a prominent Indian statesman, the last Governor-General of India, and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, influencing India's independence movement.
Q2. What were the main beliefs of the Swatantra Party?
Answer: The Swatantra Party emphasized individual liberty, a market-driven economy, and minimal government intervention, advocating for citizens' rights to own property and conduct business freely.
Q3. How successful was the Swatantra Party in elections?
Answer: The Swatantra Party achieved significant electoral success in the 1960s, winning 18 Lok Sabha seats in 1962 and becoming the second-largest opposition party with 44 seats in 1967.
Q4. What led to the decline of the Swatantra Party?
Answer: The party's decline was attributed to a changing political landscape, the rise of Indira Gandhi's populist policies, and internal divisions within the party, leading to its eventual disbandment.
Q5. When did the Swatantra Party disband?
Answer: The Swatantra Party officially disbanded in 1974, primarily due to declining electoral performance and a lack of direction after the death of its founder, C Rajagopalachari, in 1972.
Question 1: Who founded the Swatantra Party?
A) Minoo Masani
B) C Rajagopalachari
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Indira Gandhi
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: In which year was the Swatantra Party established?
A) 1955
B) 1959
C) 1962
D) 1967
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What was a key principle of the Swatantra Party?
A) Centralized planning
B) Market-driven economy
C) State-led initiatives
D) Socialist policies
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Who was the last Governor-General of independent India?
A) C Rajagopalachari
B) Lord Mountbatten
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Mahatma Gandhi
Correct Answer: A
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