After the Emergency, Indira Gandhi lost power and faced the possibility of arrest by the Janata Party government. For months, she stayed away from public appearances, and many believed her political career was finished. But an incident in Bihar in 1977 changed everything. The Belchi massacre, in which 11 Dalits were brutally killed, gave Indira Gandhi a chance to reconnect with the people. Her dramatic journey to Belchi—riding on an elephant—became a turning point in her political revival.
What Happened in Belchi?
Just before the Bihar Assembly elections, violence broke out in Belchi village, about 70 km from Patna. A group of Kurmis attacked Dalit families, opened fire, and then set them on fire. Eleven Dalits were killed, their hands and feet tied before being thrown into the flames. Eyewitnesses later recalled that even a 14-year-old boy who tried to escape was caught and thrown back into the fire alive.
The massacre created shockwaves across the nation.
Indira Gandhi’s Journey to Belchi
Sensing the political significance, Indira Gandhi decided to visit Belchi despite opposition from her family. Sonia Gandhi reportedly tried to stop her, fearing the risks, but Indira refused to listen.
On August 13, 1977, during heavy rains, Indira Gandhi flew to Patna and began her journey toward Belchi. Roads were flooded and muddy, making it impossible to travel by car. She switched to a tractor but still couldn’t go all the way.
When a swollen river blocked her path, an elephant was arranged for her. Without hesitation, Indira climbed onto it—even without a proper howdah (seat). Pratibha Patil, who accompanied her, clung nervously to the pallu of Indira’s sari as the elephant crossed waist-deep water.
Finally, Indira reached Belchi, where villagers welcomed her with tears and gratitude. Her picture on the elephant spread across India and even abroad, symbolizing her connection with the poor and oppressed. Dalits, who had turned away from her after the Emergency, began to rally behind her again. Soon after, her brief arrest only added to her popularity.
Why Did the Belchi Massacre Happen?
The massacre was rooted in caste tensions and landlord dominance. Mahavir Mahato, a powerful Kurmi, often looted Dalit crops and grabbed their lands with the support of other landlords. His rivalry with a Dalit leader named Sindhwa grew intense.
When a member of Mahato’s gang was murdered and his body found weeks later, Mahato sought revenge. His men attacked Belchi, shooting Sindhwa and others, tying them up, and throwing them into the fire.
Turning Point for Indira Gandhi
The Belchi visit marked the comeback of Indira Gandhi. Her determination to reach the victims, braving floods and riding an elephant, transformed her public image. From this moment, the Congress party began regaining ground, and Indira’s political career, once thought to be over, was reborn.
