On February 20, 1981, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her own bodyguards. The assassination was the result of a long-standing political dispute with the Sikh separatist movement, which sought an independent state of Khalistan. Gandhis death led to widespread violence and retaliation, particularly against Sikhs, resulting in thousands of deaths. The tragedy deeply shocked India, leading to political upheaval and a change in leadership. Her son, Rajiv Gandhi, succeeded her as Prime Minister, and the assassination reshaped the course of Indian politics.