Which Prime Minister’s 'Inner Cabinet' became particularly powerful during their era?

The correct answer is Indira Gandhi.

Key Points

• During Indira Gandhi's tenure as Prime Minister, her 'Inner Cabinet' or 'Kitchen Cabinet' became extremely powerful and influential in decision-making.
• The Inner Cabinet consisted of a small group of trusted advisors and ministers who played a significant role in shaping policies and bypassing the regular Cabinet structure.
• Prominent members of this informal group included individuals like P.N. Haksar, who served as her principal secretary and was instrumental in policy formulation.
• This structure allowed Indira Gandhi to centralize power, reducing the influence of senior Congress leaders and making her governance more authoritarian in nature.
• The dominance of the Inner Cabinet was especially evident during critical events like the nationalization of banks in 1969 and the declaration of Emergency in 1975.

Additional Information

• Kitchen Cabinet:
  • An informal group of advisors or ministers who work closely with the head of the government, often bypassing the formal Cabinet system.
  • Such groups are not officially recognized but wield significant influence over policymaking and decision-making processes.
• Centralization of Power:
  • Indira Gandhi's leadership style was marked by a strong centralization of authority, reducing the autonomy of regional Congress leaders and state governments.
  • This centralization was often criticized for undermining democratic institutions and fostering authoritarian practices.
• Bank Nationalization of 1969:
  • One of the landmark decisions during Indira Gandhi's tenure, where 14 major private banks were nationalized to bring banking services to the masses.
  • The decision was heavily influenced by her Inner Cabinet and marked a shift towards socialist economic policies.
• Emergency Period (1975-1977):
  • During this period, democratic processes were suspended, and civil liberties were curtailed under Indira Gandhi's leadership.
  • The decision to impose Emergency was driven by her close advisors, showcasing the power of the Inner Cabinet.
• P.N. Haksar's Role:
  • As Indira Gandhi's principal secretary, P.N. Haksar played a pivotal role in shaping key policies, including the abolition of privy purses and the nationalization of banks.
  • He was considered a key member of her Inner Cabinet and a trusted confidant.