The Longest-Running Female Prisoner of India: Nalini Sriharan and the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination

The assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 remains one of the most memorable and tragic events in India's recent history. This incident is marked by multiple firsts: the first human bomb in India, the first female suicide bomber, and the assassination of a prime minister in a suicide attack. Central to this tragedy was Nalini Sriharan, one of the six assailants accused of the crime. Sriharan, who is currently India’s longest-serving female prisoner, has been serving a 32-year sentence after being involved in the assassination. She is awaiting the decision of the Supreme Court regarding her release.

The Incident and Operation Black Thursday (May 21, 1991)

Rajiv Gandhi was campaigning for the upcoming elections in the southern states of India when he was assassinated on May 21, 1991. The assassination was carried out by a woman suicide bomber named Dhanu, who belonged to the Sri Lanka’s terrorist organization, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The bombing took place in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. Dhanu detonated the explosive belt strapped to her body after bending down to touch the feet of the Prime Minister.

Nalini Sriharan’s Involvement in the Assassination

Nalini Sriharan was one of the six assailants, accused of playing a role in the assassination. Unlike the lone female suicide bomber Dhanu, Sriharan was a part of a five-member squad that was involved in the operation. Her role was exposed through photographs taken by S. Haribabu, a local photographer, who tragically also became a victim of the bombing. These photographs served as a key evidence in the case, implicating Sriharan in the massacre. After the incident, Sriharan was arrested and later sentenced to 32 years in prison.

The Release Hearing and Ongoing Controversy

Recently, Nalini Sriharan was released from prison after serving a 32-year sentence. However, her release is still pending the final decision of the Supreme Court. This release has sparked controversial debates among the public and legal experts. The case against her is currently under scrutiny, with officials and her legal representative presenting varying accounts of the events leading to her arrest.

Recent Developments and Prison Conditions

Tragically, Nalini Sriharan attempted suicide in her prison cell at Vellore Central Jail two years ago. She reportedly threatened to kill herself while the jail authorities were investigating a harassment complaint. According to reports, another female convict accused Nalini Sriharan of harassing her and demanded a change of cell. Nalini Sriharan threatened to commit suicide if the complaint against her was upheld. Her lawyer, Pugazhenthi, has countered these claims, stating that Nalini's life is in danger inside the jail and she attempted suicide due to a confrontation with a jail official.

The Longest-Running Female Prisoner and Her Legacy

Nalini Sriharan has been a prisoner for 29 years, making her India’s longest-serving female prisoner. Her continued imprisonment has garnered significant attention, with many advocating for her release. Despite the severity of her conviction, her supporters argue that her prolonged incarceration is inhumane and that she has served enough time. The case of Nalini Sriharan continues to be a contentious issue, evoking discussions on justice, rehabilitation, and human rights.