Another India: The Making of the World's Largest Muslim Minority, 1947-77

The book "Another India" explores the story of India's largest religious minority, the Muslims, and challenges the traditional accounts of Nehru's India. It highlights the neglect of minority rights, the illiberal and intolerant Congress regime, and the elite betrayal of ordinary Muslims, resulting in discrimination, disadvantage, and disenfranchisement. The consequences of this betrayal are still felt by India's 200 million Muslims today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Another India delves into the captivating narrative of the world's largest religious minority, shedding light on the diverse experiences of Indian Muslims across various social strata. Through vivid biographical portraits of a wide range of individuals, the book brings the unique perspective of the country's Muslims to the forefront, offering a comprehensive understanding of their lives and contributions. By focusing on the first thirty years of independence, Another India also reflects on the true essence of democratic India, challenging prevailing narratives and unveiling the complexities of the nation's social fabric.

The book challenges traditional histories of Nehru's India, highlighting the neglect of minority rights from the very beginning. Despite the best intentions of the Congress regime that ruled for three decades, the reality was often far from democratic. Muslims faced discrimination, disadvantage, deindustrialization, dispossession, and disenfranchisement, all while dealing with an unresponsive leadership. The Muslim elite, in their pursuit of power and influence, encouraged depoliticization, engaging in seemingly noble but largely inconsequential causes that had little impact on the daily lives of ordinary community members.

This version of Muslim politics excluded the possibility of mass protests or collective solidarity, leaving Muslims feeling marginalized and disenfranchised. Another India explores this elite betrayal, its consequences still felt by India's 200 million Muslims today. The book sheds light on the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by this community, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity, equality, and social justice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing the unique experiences and needs of religious minorities in a democratic society.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787388086