Who is Phoolan Devi?

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Phoolan Devi, also known as the "Bandit Queen," was a notable Indian figure whose life story is marked by a series of dramatic events and transformations, here are some things to know about her.

1

Early Life and Background

Born on August 10, 1963, in the village of Gorha Ka Purwa in Uttar Pradesh, her family faced significant economic hardship and social discrimination.

2

Marriage and Abuse

At a young age, Phoolan was married off to a much older man, who subjected her to severe physical and sexual abuse.

3

Entry into Banditry

Following disputes over land and family honour, Phoolan became involved with a gang of bandits in the ravines of Chambal.

4

The Behmai Massacre

The Behmai massacre in 1981, where her gang killed 22 Thakur men in retaliation for her previous kidnapping and gang rape by upper-caste Thakur men.

5

Surrender and Imprisonment

She spent 11 years in prison without trial, eventually being released in 1994 due to lack of evidence.

6

Political Career

She was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Mirzapur constituency in Uttar Pradesh in 1996 and re-elected in 1999.

7

Assassination

On July 25, 2001, Phoolan Devi was assassinated outside her residence in New Delhi. her murder was attributed to a vendetta by Sher Singh Rana.