The process of integration that followed the dissolution of princely rule was accompanied by an assurance that the families of the ruling monarchs at the time would be permitted to maintain specific private properties. Additionally, they would receive a grant either through hereditary means or a government allowance. This grant was termed the "privy purse." During the accession phase, these privileges were met with little criticism, as the central objective was the integration and consolidation of territories.
However, the concept of hereditary privileges clashed with the foundational principles of equality and social and economic justice enshrined in the Constitution of India. Nehru consistently voiced his dissatisfaction with this matter. Subsequent to the 1967 elections, Indira Gandhi advocated for the elimination of privy purses by the government.

How did the issue of privy purses change after the 1971 election?

The Constitution was amended to facilitate their abolition.

In an attempt to address the issue of privy purse, the government pursued a Constitutional amendment in 1970. Nevertheless, this amendment did not gain approval in Rajya Sabha. Consequently, the government issued an ordinance, which was subsequently invalidated by the Supreme Court. Indira Gandhi transformed this matter into a central topic during the 1971 elections, garnering substantial public support. Following the resounding victory in the 1971 elections, the Constitution underwent amendments that paved the way for the legal removal of obstacles obstructing the abolition of the "privy purse.