A trailblazer in Indian politics

Sucheta Kriplani was a distinguished freedom fighter, social reformer and politician who made history as India’s first woman Chief Minister, serving Uttar Pradesh from 1963 to 1967. Her life was marked by steadfast dedication to India's Independence and nation-building, as well as a trailblazing role in breaking gender barriers in Indian politics.

Born on June 25, 1908, in Ambala, Punjab (then part of British India), Sucheta Kriplani belonged to a Bengali Brahmo Samaj family. Her father, SN Majumdar, was a government doctor, and her upbringing emphasised education and reformist values. She graduated from the University of Delhi and became a professor at Banaras Hindu University. It was during her academic career that her exposure to the Indian freedom movement deepened, inspiring her to join the struggle against British colonial rule.

Kriplani’s entry into the Independence movement was strongly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s call for non-violent resistance. She became an active member of the Indian National Congress and worked closely with leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel and Sarojini Naidu. Known for her oratory skills and organisational ability, she played a pivotal role in mobilising women for the Quit India Movement in 1942, often risking arrest and imprisonment. Her resilience was evident during the tumultuous period of the Partition in 1947, when she worked tirelessly to provide relief to refugees and maintain communal harmony.

Her marriage to Acharya JB Kriplani, a prominent Gandhian and Congress leader, was unconventional for the time, as it defied caste and societal norms. The couple’s shared commitment to Gandhian principles and the nationalist cause became a cornerstone of their partnership.

After Independence, Sucheta Kriplani transitioned into legislative politics. She was elected to the Constituent Assembly of India in 1946 and contributed significantly to drafting the Indian Constitution. Her advocacy for women's rights and social justice was notable during this period.

Her most remarkable achievement came in 1963, when she became the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India's largest state. Her tenure was marked by her efforts to strengthen administration, improve law and order, and manage the challenges posed by the 1966 food crisis. Despite the entrenched patriarchy of the era, she earned respect for her firm decision-making and integrity.

Throughout her career, Kriplani maintained a low profile, focusing on governance and social issues rather than personal acclaim. She retired from active politics in 1971 and passed away on December 1, 1974.

Kriplani’s legacy as a freedom fighter, constitution-maker, and the first woman to lead a state government in India remains an inspiration for generations of leaders. Her life epitomises the transformative role women have played in shaping modern India, challenging societal norms and paving the way for gender equality in politics and governance.