1989 Indian general election

The 1989 Indian general election, held from November 22 to December 20, marked the eighth Lok Sabha elections in India, resulting in a significant realignment of the political landscape. Following the tumultuous period of the late 1980s, characterized by communal tensions and political instability, the elections were conducted under the auspices of the Election Commission of India. The incumbent Indian National Congress, led by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, faced a formidable challenge from a coalition of opposition parties, including the National Front, which comprised various regional and leftist groups. The election saw a notable decline in the Congress's dominance, leading to the formation of a non-Congress government for the first time since 1980, signifying a critical milestone in Indian electoral politics.