Rail accidents, wars, terror, corruption — and onions: Why Indian ministers, even a CM, have quit in the past

In India's political landscape, holding office has sometimes proven untenable due to major crises. Past resignations by ministers and even chief ministers have been triggered by a range of events, from devastating rail accidents to acts of terror and pervasive corruption.

The Hindustan Times article traces a history of such departures, noting that these moments have often forced political leaders to step down. The instances cited span decades, including the 1956 Ariyalur train disaster and more recent events like the #MeToo movement in 2018, which also led to high-profile exits.

These resignations, whether voluntary or forced, reflect an underlying expectation of accountability for those in positions of power. The article suggests that while the specific triggers vary, the ultimate consequence is a recognition that certain events make it impossible to continue in public service.