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| 1990 |
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| In a decade of industrial growth (1980–90), coal production had doubled, and oil and automobile production had tripled. This advance had doubtless been facilitated by economic liberalization, but was challenged to the point of economic crisis in 1990 because of the country's political instability. | 1 |
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| Sept |
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| V. P. Singh's government announced that it would implement Mandalization (See 1981, June) in a bid to win support of the Backward Classes. Widespread unrest within the middle classes (especially among traders, owners of small businesses, and white-collar workers) followed the announcement; some 40 students immolated themselves in a form of protest new to India. | 2 |
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| Oct.–Nov |
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| A procession to Ayodhya by Hindus was halted by the government. A major confrontation ensued, and a large number of people were killed. V. P. Singh was given a vote of no confidence, a new government was formed by Chandra Shekhar, and fresh elections were scheduled for May 1991. | 3 |
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