Population and the Political Imagination: Census, Register and Citizenship in India

This book explores the relationship between the state, citizenship, and polity by examining processes related to census enumeration, population, and citizen registers, and the politics of classificatory governmentality. It highlights the role of religion, ethnicity, caste, and political class in determining community identities and the inclusion or exclusion of minorities and migrants as citizens in India. It suggests that political imagination shapes the processes and strategies for enumeration and classification and offers suggestions for alternative constructions of citizenship and an inclusive state.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 14 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive work delves into the intricate relationship between population,polity,and citizenship,unveiling its central significance in shaping the dynamics of societies. It explores the multifaceted connections between the state,citizenship,and polity by reevaluating the processes associated with census enumeration,population management,citizen registers,and the politics of classificatory governmentality.

Religion, ethnicity, caste, and political class emerge as pivotal factors in determining the contours of community identities and the intricate dynamics between individuals and the state. By contextualizing the debates and controversies surrounding the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019 (CAA 2019) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), this book examines the processes of inclusion or exclusion of minorities and migrants as citizens in India.

A particular focus is placed on the classification of irregular and refugee migration since India's independence, particularly in the state of Assam. The book highlights how political imagination, serving as a theoretical framework, shapes the processes and strategies for enumeration and classification, ultimately influencing the concept of citizenship.

Through its analysis, the book underscores the interconnectedness between instruments of government, political mobilization, and the resurgence of communal polarization. It offers insightful suggestions for alternative constructions of citizenship and an inclusive state, aimed at promoting social harmony and equity.

This book is a valuable resource for students and researchers specializing in population studies, population geography, migration studies, sociology, political science, social anthropology, law, and journalism. It will also be of interest to policy makers, journalists, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and civil society organizations (CSOs). By shedding light on the complex dynamics of population, polity, and citizenship, this work contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing contemporary societies.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032253633