Indian Politics and Society since Independence

This book examines politics and society in India. It explores new areas enmeshed in the complex social, economic and political processes of the country. Linking structural characteristics with the broader sociological context, the book emphasises the strong influence of sociological issues on politics.

Bidyut Chakrabarty is Professor in Political Science at the University of Delhi, India, and is currently the Mahatma Gandhi(visiting) Chair for Global Non-Violence at the Gandhi Centre at James Madison University, USA.

Introduction 1. Setting the Scene 2. Shaping Indian Politics: The Language of Identity 3. Indian Democracy: Liberalism in its Reinvented Form 4. Parliamentary Federalism in India: Redefining the Westminster Model 5. The Chaotic 1960s: A Decade of Experiments and Turmoil 6. The Left Front and the 2006 Assembly Elections in West Bengal: Marxism Reinvented 7. Coalition Politics in India: Cultural Synergy or Political Expediency. Conclusion