Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The "Syndicate" is a term used to describe the internal power dynamics of the Indian National Congress during the transitional years of the 1960s, specifically between the death of Nehru (1964) and the party split (1969).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Syndicate was an informal group of senior, influential leaders within the Congress party who managed the organizational machinery and held sway over state units.
Key Figures:
The group included figures like K. Kamraj (Madras), S.K. Patil (Bombay), S. Nijalingappa (Mysore), N. Sanjiva Reddy (Andhra Pradesh), and Atulya Ghosh (West Bengal).
Their Influence:
After the death of Jawaharlal Nehru, the Syndicate acted as "kingmakers."
They were instrumental in the selection of Lal Bahadur Shastri as the next PM.
Later, in 1966, they supported Indira Gandhi for the Prime Ministership, believing that as a younger and seemingly inexperienced leader, she would remain dependent on their guidance and allow them to maintain their control over the party.
The Clash with Indira Gandhi:
Indira Gandhi soon began to assert her independence. She adopted a radical socialist agenda and a populist style of politics that sidelined the senior leaders.
She built her own support base among the poor and marginalized, bypassing the party organization.
This power struggle culminated in the 1969 split, where the Syndicate remained with the "Congress (O)" (Organization), while Indira Gandhi led the "Congress (R)" (Requisitionists).
In the subsequent 1971 elections, Indira's Congress decimated the Syndicate-led faction.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Syndicate was a group of senior Congress organizational leaders.
The correct option is (B).