“The Oxford Companion to Politics in India” edited by Niraja Gopal Jayal and Pratap Bhanu Mehta is a comprehensive and authoritative overview of Indian politics. The book provides a methodical exposition of the Indian political system, incorporating the best social science knowledge available on the developments in Indian politics.
The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of Indian politics – from the State, Indian Constitutionalism, the Indian Parliament, Federalism, Local Governance, to the Election Commission and the fragmentation of the Indian Party System. It also examines social cleavages like class, caste, and gender as well as regional and religious diversities that shape politics in various ways.
The book further explores political processes through political parties, political mobilization, alliances, and political leadership. It also delves into ideological contestations like nationalism, secularism, political representation, and social justice. The linkages between social movements and civil society are highlighted through discussions on farmers’ movements, women movements, and the role of NGOs in Indian politics.
Overall, “The Oxford Companion to Politics in India” is an enlightening read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of institutional choice and its impact on law and public policy. It offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on how we perceive and interact with these institutions.