The 1989 general elections marked a significant turning point in Indian politics as the Indian National Congress faced a stunning defeat after four decades of dominance. Despite emerging as the largest party, PM Rajiv Gandhi’s Congress suffered a sharp decline in seats. The aftermath saw the rise of coalition politics driven by the Bofors scandal, leading to the formation of a coalition government. However, this era was short-lived, overshadowed by socio-religious events like ‘Mandir and Mandal’ that reshaped the political landscape, ushering in a new era of political realignment in India.