The 1960s in India are often called the "dangerous decade" due to a combination of political, economic, and social crises that tested the country’s stability and democratic foundation.

Political Instability:

• Leadership Crisis: The deaths of Prime Ministers Nehru (1964) and Shastri (1966) created uncertainty over national leadership and the future of the Congress party.

• Rise of Regional Parties: Regional forces gained strength, challenging Congress dominance and complicating governance.

• Political Defections: Frequent shifting of political loyalties, summed up by the phrase “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram,” led to instability and weakened democratic institutions.

• Non-Congress Governments: The emergence of coalition and non-Congress governments in various states marked a major political shift.

Economic Challenges:

• Agricultural Crisis: Poor agricultural output caused severe food shortages and economic distress.

• Persistent Poverty: Widespread poverty and inequality fueled dissatisfaction and unrest.

Social Tensions:

• Communalism & Regionalism: Rising communal and regional divides threatened national unity.

• Democratic Concerns: These challenges raised fears that India's democracy might fail or fracture.

In summary, the “dangerous decade” highlighted a period of intense uncertainty marked by leadership changes, economic hardship, and growing social unrest—all of which deeply tested India’s unity and democratic resilience.