Why in News? 

India remembers former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on his death anniversary for his contributions to Indian politics and democracy. 

About Chandra Shekhar 

• Born: 1 July 1927, Ibrahimpatti village, Uttar Pradesh. 
• Education: BA from Satish Chandra PG College; MA in Political Science from Allahabad University (1951). 
• Influenced by Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia and Acharya Narendra Dev; joined Praja Socialist Party. 
• Entered Parliament in 1962 as a Rajya Sabha member from UP. 

Chandra Shekhar 

Political Journey & Achievements 

• Joined the Congress Party in 1964; elected to the Lok Sabha in 1967. 
• Started the weekly ‘Young Indian’ in 1969. 
• Criticized Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi; jailed despite being in Congress. 
• Earned the title ‘Young Turk’ for his bold views and 1983 padayatra. 
• Played a role in bank nationalisation and abolition of privy purses. 
• Founded Bharat Yatra Centres to train grassroots workers. 

Tenure as Prime Minister 

• Became PM on 10 November 1990 with Congress support. 
• Handled Defence and Home Affairs portfolios. 
• Resigned in March 1991 after Congress withdrew support.