India’s freedom struggle was not only about men who marched, protested, and fought against the British. Women also played an equally significant role, though history has often forgotten their contributions. Among these inspiring women, Sucheta Kriplani stands out as a remarkable leader, freedom fighter, and politician who broke barriers in a male-dominated society. From her active role in the independence movement to becoming the first woman Chief Minister of India, her life story is one of courage, determination, and leadership.
Early Life and Education
Sucheta Kriplani was born on 25 June 1908 in Ambala, Punjab (then part of British India). She belonged to a Bengali Brahmo family, which valued education and reformist ideas. Her father, S.N. Majumdar, was a government doctor who believed in modern thinking and encouraged his children to study. Growing up in such an environment helped Sucheta develop confidence and a questioning mind from an early age.
Sucheta completed her schooling in Kolkata and later pursued higher education at Indraprastha College, Delhi, followed by studies at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. She studied history and political science, subjects that shaped her understanding of India’s struggle for freedom. After her graduation, she took up teaching as a profession and became a professor of constitutional history at Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
Her career as a teacher gave her not only intellectual depth but also strong communication skills that would later make her an effective leader and politician.
Marriage to J.B. Kriplani
While teaching at BHU, Sucheta met Acharya Jivatram Bhagwandas Kriplani (J.B. Kriplani), a senior freedom fighter and prominent leader of the Indian National Congress. Despite opposition from her conservative family—since J.B. Kriplani was much older and from a different community—Sucheta chose to marry him in 1936.
Her marriage to J.B. Kriplani was not just a personal relationship but also a political partnership. Together, they became deeply involved in the Indian freedom movement, working alongside Mahatma Gandhi and other national leaders.
Entry into the Freedom Struggle
Sucheta’s journey into active politics began after her marriage. She was deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and truth. Under his guidance, she became actively involved in the independence movement.
During the Quit India Movement of 1942, Sucheta played a critical role. She worked underground, secretly distributing leaflets, organizing protests, and mobilizing women to participate in the struggle. At a time when many leaders were arrested, Sucheta took charge of Congress activities and became a symbol of courage.
Her commitment caught the attention of Gandhi, who saw in her a determined and capable leader. Sucheta was often called to work closely with him at Sevagram Ashram, where she contributed to organizing constructive programs like women’s empowerment, rural development, and the promotion of khadi.
Role in Partition and Relief Work
The independence of India in 1947 came with the painful partition, which led to communal riots, large-scale violence, and the displacement of millions of people. Sucheta Kriplani rose to the occasion and took up relief work with great dedication.
She organized camps for refugees, provided food, clothing, and shelter, and worked tirelessly to restore peace. Her courage and leadership during this difficult period made her stand out among her contemporaries. She showed that women could not only participate in politics but also manage large-scale humanitarian crises with efficiency.
Contribution to the Constituent Assembly
One of Sucheta Kriplani’s most significant contributions was as a member of the Constituent Assembly of India. She was one of the 15 women members out of nearly 300 in the Assembly.
In the Constituent Assembly, she actively participated in debates on issues related to fundamental rights, equality, and the role of women in society. She supported the inclusion of gender equality and social justice in the Constitution.
On 14 August 1947, the night before India gained independence, Sucheta Kriplani had the honour of singing Vande Mataram in the Central Hall of Parliament. Her voice symbolized the spirit of freedom and unity of the nation.
Political Career after Independence
After independence, Sucheta Kriplani continued her political journey. She was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1952 from New Delhi as a candidate of the Indian National Congress. She worked hard in Parliament, raising issues related to social welfare, women’s rights, and the upliftment of weaker sections.
Later, she became the Minister of Labour, Community Development and Industry in Uttar Pradesh. Her efficient handling of the ministry earned her respect across party lines.
First Woman Chief Minister of India
In 1963, Sucheta Kriplani created history by becoming the first woman Chief Minister of India, when she took charge of Uttar Pradesh, the country’s most populous state.
Her appointment was a landmark moment for Indian politics, as it broke the stereotype that women could not handle high administrative responsibilities.
As Chief Minister, Sucheta Kriplani focused on:
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Improving education and healthcare facilities.
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Strengthening the state’s law and order.
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Promoting industrial growth and rural development.
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Ensuring fair wages and better working conditions for labourers.
She faced numerous challenges, including political opposition, economic hurdles, and administrative inefficiency. Yet, she handled her role with firmness and honesty. Her leadership style was marked by discipline and simplicity, much like Gandhi’s principles.
Later Years in Politics
Sucheta Kriplani served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh till 1967. After her tenure, she gradually withdrew from active politics. She felt that the new political culture was moving away from the values of service and sacrifice that had defined the freedom struggle.
Though she stepped away from public life, her contributions remained a source of inspiration for younger generations, especially women entering politics.
Personal Traits and Leadership Style
Sucheta Kriplani was known for her simplicity, discipline, and integrity. She avoided luxury and lived a modest life. Despite holding high office, she remained humble and approachable.
Her leadership style was a blend of firmness and compassion. While she was strict when it came to principles, she was also empathetic towards the poor, women, and marginalized sections of society.
Death and Legacy
Sucheta Kriplani passed away on 1 December 1974 in New Delhi. Though she did not seek fame, her contributions remain an integral part of India’s political history.
Her legacy can be understood in three ways:
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Freedom Fighter – She played a brave and active role in the independence movement.
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Constitution Maker – She contributed to shaping modern India through her work in the Constituent Assembly.
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Political Leader – She broke barriers by becoming the first woman Chief Minister of India, paving the way for many women leaders in future.
Lessons from Sucheta Kriplani’s Life
Sucheta Kriplani’s journey offers many lessons for today’s generation:
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Courage to challenge barriers – She broke gender and social barriers to become a national leader.
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Service above self – Whether in the independence struggle or in refugee camps, she always put the nation first.
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Integrity in politics – Her clean image reminds us that politics can be a tool for service, not power.
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Women empowerment – She showed that women can lead with equal capability as men in any field.
Conclusion
Sucheta Kriplani’s life is a shining example of how determination and courage can help a person rise above all challenges. From being a professor of history to becoming a freedom fighter, and from working alongside Mahatma Gandhi to becoming India’s first woman Chief Minister, her journey is truly inspiring.
At a time when women’s participation in politics was minimal, she proved that leadership knows no gender. Her contribution to the freedom movement, the Constituent Assembly, and Indian politics remains invaluable.
Today, as India continues its journey of democracy and development, remembering leaders like Sucheta Kriplani helps us stay connected to the values of sacrifice, service, and integrity that built the foundation of our nation.
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