What event took place in 1969, just before the fracture within the Congress party?

V.V. Giri's presidency of India

Answer- V.V. Giri's presidency of India

The Congress party had previously experienced such differences, but on this occasion, both factions were seeking a confrontation, which unfolded during the Presidential elections. The then Congress President, S. Nijalingappa, issued a directive, commonly referred to as a 'whip,' urging all Congress MPs and MLAs to cast their votes in support of Sanjeeva Reddy, the officially nominated candidate of the party. Meanwhile, supporters of Indira Gandhi attempted to convene a special meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), resulting in their faction being termed 'requisitionists.' However, their request was declined. While discreetly endorsing V.V. Giri, the Prime Minister later openly advocated for a 'conscience vote.' This stance granted Congress MPs and MLAs the freedom to cast their votes as per their individual preferences. The outcome of the election ultimately culminated in the triumph of V.V. Giri, an independent candidate, and the defeat of Sanjeeva Reddy, who stood as the official Congress candidate.