How India Became Democratic by Ornit Shani (Hardcover)

“How India Became Democratic: Citizenship” by Ornit Shani is a book that explores the process through which India became a democratic country by examining the evolution of citizenship in the country. The book argues that India’s democracy is unique because it was built on the foundation of a citizenship regime that was inclusive and accommodative of diverse identities, rather than on a shared national identity.

Shani traces the history of citizenship in India from the colonial period to the present day, showing how citizenship was redefined and expanded over time to include more people. She looks at the debates and struggles over citizenship that took place during critical moments in India’s history, such as the partition of the country in 1947, the adoption of the Constitution in 1950, and the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations in 1990.

The book also analyzes the role of political leaders, social movements, and legal institutions in shaping citizenship and democracy in India. Shani argues that India’s democratic success can be attributed to the way in which citizenship has been redefined to accommodate the country’s diversity, and that this model of inclusive citizenship can serve as a model for other diverse societies around the world.

Overall, “How India Became Democratic: Citizenship” provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the evolution of citizenship in India and its role in the country’s journey towards becoming a democratic nation.