India's 1967-71 Instability: When 45 State Governments Collapsed

Between 1967 and 1971, India witnessed an "Era of Instability" where 45 state governments collapsed like a house of cards. This period marked the end of the Indian National Congress's post-independence dominance, paving the way for experimental, often fragile, coalition governments at the state level. The 1967 elections saw Congress lose its majority in eight states, leading to ideologically disparate Samyukta Vidhayak Dal coalitions. Widespread political defections became rampant, giving rise to the popular phrase "Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram". During this turbulent four-year phase, President's Rule was imposed 16 times, highlighting the severe political uncertainty.