Sectarianism, Politics and Development

Book Details:

• Author: Uday Mehta

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2012

• ISBN: 9788131605233

• Pages: 304

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.9 x 1.0 inches

About the Book
This compelling volume brings together eleven insightful essays by academics, human rights activists, and social workers that delve into the implications of sectarian politics in Gujarat. Focused on the intersection of religion, caste, and power, the book investigates how political movements based on religious identity have shaped Gujarat’s civic and developmental landscape over the past five decades.

It critically explores the emergence of dominant caste groups and their influence on the socio-political marginalization of Dalits, Adivasis, and other underprivileged communities. These essays highlight how such politics has led to ecological degradation, economic disparity, and the erosion of minority rights, especially impacting women from marginalized backgrounds. The process of land acquisition, agrarian struggles, and post-violence rehabilitation are also covered in depth.

Through a multidimensional lens, this book offers a valuable perspective on the challenges of communalism, development, and social justice in contemporary India.

About the Author / Editor
Uday Mehta is a noted sociologist with a strong interdisciplinary approach. He holds an SSA and Ph.D. from TISS and Mumbai University and is known for his scholarly work on agrarian policies, secularism, and the socio-religious dynamics of modern India.

Ram Puniyani, co-contributor, is a renowned secular activist and former professor at IIT Bombay. He has authored numerous books on communalism and secularism and actively works to promote democratic and pluralistic values across India.