Indian elections in 1971 started with congress 'Garibi hatao' slogans. As oil prices increased in the international markets, India too was captured in the inflation. Rising prices of oil, foodgrains and other essential commodities led to massive protests in many parts of the country. Students' protests in Gujarat and Bihar during 1974 led to the emergence of leaders such as Morarji Desai, and Jayaprakash Narayan among others.

Moreover, there was a railway strike organised by George Fernandes to meet the demand of improved working conditions and bonus for the Railway employees. The period also saw the conflict between the judiciary and the executive. This conflict culminated in the famous Kesavananda Bhauti case, and later into a rulling declaring Indira Gandhi's election invalid.

As the Allahabad High court passed a judgement to this effect, the stage was set for a political confrontation between congress and opposition parties led by Jayaprakash Narayan.

These events finally led to the declaration of emergency by the government on 25th June 1975.

In which two states students protested against rising food prices, oil etc.?

(1) Haryana & Punjab

(2) Gujarat & Maharastra

(3) Bihar & Gujarat

(4) Bihar & Rajasthan

3

Students’ protests in Gujarat and Bihar, both of which were Congress ruled States, had far reaching impact on the politics of the two States and national politics.