Factors that led to the popularity of Indira Gandhi’s government in the early 1970’s:-
i. Indira Gandhi won 1971 elections decisively. Soon after 1971 elections, a major crisis broke out in East Pakistan resulting in the formation of Bangladesh. This crisis was followed by Indo- Pak War of 1971. India had a decisive victory in that War and Pakistani forces were forced to surrender in front of Indian forces. These events added to the popularity of Indira Gandhi. Even the opposition parties admired her statesmanship.
ii. Her party swept through all State assembly elections held in 1972.
iii. Due to the socialist orientation, she was seen as a protectorate of the poor and the underprivileged.
