Assistant Professor (Stage - II) of Political Science, Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata. Phone: +919433673354 Address: Department of Political Science Rabindra Bharati University Emerald Bower Campus 56A, B.T. Road Kolkata - 700050 West Bengal INDIA
Caste, Marginalisation, and Resistance, Brill: The Netherlands, 2024
The identity politics of the householder Naths (Yogis), on the one hand, is one of the oldest and... more The identity politics of the householder Naths (Yogis), on the one hand, is one of the oldest and most persistent identity assertions in Bengal and Assam. On the other, for an array of reasons, the identity assertion of the householder Naths of Bengal and Assam has failed to draw academic curiosity so far. Since the late nineteenth century, a segment of the Naths, largely educated and elite, has been crafting their identity as Brahman grounded on their “origin myth”, negotiating with the British colonial administration through different census enumerations, as well as internal social reforms. One of the primary reasons for their current lagging is that the Naths never politicised their identity and demands, and did not mobilise themselves in the democratic political arena.
The Palgrave Handbook of Global Social Change, 2024
Since the last two to three decades, those concepts in social sciences and literature have create... more Since the last two to three decades, those concepts in social sciences and literature have created a stir; globalization is one of them. Globalization is, as a matter of fact, closely related to the economic activities created for political purposes, which is an innovative fruit-bearing creation of neoliberalism. The goal of the ubiquitous and unavoidable processes of globalization is to link and integrate national economies with the global economy. Globalization, fueled by privatization, liberalization, and technical advancement, has increased worldwide production and trade in goods and services.
Although, in the larger sense, besides political economy, globalization is involved in language, literature, culture, clothing, food habits, health, technology, and communication. If we look deeply, we will see that the previously mentioned issues are closely related to economics and politics. Liberalization and privatization, two other comrades of globalization, further accelerated the process of globalization. Although there is a part “global” in the word “globalization,” a question may arise whether this word “global” represents the entire world or not. The debate relating to the word “global” would be focused very briefly at the end of this chapter.
This piece, therefore, looks at the concepts of globalization, liberalization, and privatization, and their effects on society, economies, and environments in the developing world. It focuses on the benefits of globalization, which include development, good governance, healthcare services, and public-private partnerships. It also examines the potential side effects of globalization, including structural adjustment, religious fundamentalism, and environmental damage. Finally, it discusses the debate over whether globalization truly represents the world or is simply “Westernization.”
Electoral Narratives of Democracy and Governance in India, 2024
This chapter titled, ‘Apolitical Community and Elections: Comparative Study of Naths in West Beng... more This chapter titled, ‘Apolitical Community and Elections: Comparative Study of Naths in West Bengal and Assam’ by Kunal Debnath argues that due to the absence of a centralised organisation, the absence of the desire to be promoted as a vote bank, political apathy of these organisations due to the belief that caste foundation will be eroded by getting in touch with politics and the absence of any political association or political vision, the main aim of the Nath community remained to have a social status and not political one. Due to the internal division among Naths on the question of securing OBC status both in Assam and in West Bengal, the Nath remains apolitical.
Encyclopedia of New Populism and Responses in the 21st Century, 2023
Welfare populism, which relies on various welfare schemes through redistribution of resources, ha... more Welfare populism, which relies on various welfare schemes through redistribution of resources, has gained immense popularity across the world in the twenty-first century. Quite a number of populist political parties, be it leftist or rightist, use welfare populism in electoral politics for securing people’s vote.
Corporate Social Responsibility in Developing Countries: Challenges in the Extractive Industry, 2023
Over the last few decades, both academic and business entities in the West and East have been att... more Over the last few decades, both academic and business entities in the West and East have been attracted to the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The modern-day definition of CSR has transcended beyond the philanthropic notion with the inclusion of CSR into core business operations. In developing societies, corporations, along with the state, are also entrusted with societal development, particularly toward the upliftment of the marginalized sections. Thus, CSR delineates a socially responsible behavior in business operations. CSR encourages the extractive industries to think beyond profits and to give equal importance to the social and environmental issues upon which they are responsible as well. Unlike the established paradigm of CSR in the West that focuses on the moral and social obligations of corporations, this chapter perceives corporate sectors as agents of socioeconomic development. Therefore, contemporary understanding of CSR should focus on the responsibilities of corporations to support the state in socioeconomic development as a stakeholder. Corporations in developing societies, in contrast to the West, are less concerned with their social performances. Weak regulations coupled with a high level of corruption restrict corporations’ engagement in socioeconomic activities. Thus, in developing countries, such as India, the state plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of CSR. In developing societies, the state not only is entrusted with making regulations related to CSR but also ensures social welfare while challenging the profit maximization of corporations. Following the Companies Act, 2013, India made CSR spending mandatory, posing challenges to the extractive industries. Hence, this chapter is an attempt to understand the systematic transformations of CSR policies in India. Unlike the neoliberal maxim of rolling back the state, this chapter rejuvenates the importance of the state in promoting CSR. For that purpose, neoinstitutionalist methodology has been employed.
In 2015, the Supreme Court of India directed the Government of India to confer the citizenship ri... more In 2015, the Supreme Court of India directed the Government of India to confer the citizenship right to the Chakma refugees, who settled in North-Eastern States in India. Arunachal Pradesh, the former North Eastern Frontier Agency, holds a large number of Chakma refugees who had migrated to India from the erstwhile East Pakistan during the late 1960s. The present benevolent approach of the Government of India towards this ethno-refugee community is having domestic as well as external implication in the backdrop of rampant deportation of refugees from its neighbouring state, Bangladesh. Mere citizenship right may result in the administrative integration of the Chakmas but could not resolve their crises as alien versus indigenous debate intensifies the refugee crises today. Over the decades, political alienation of the Chakma refugees extended their sense of deprivation and marginalization. A separate perspective is required to assess the Chakmas’ claim that they are after all not ali...
People who beg are almost invisible in public policy debates in India due to their literal absenc... more People who beg are almost invisible in public policy debates in India due to their literal absence of bargaining power, in spite of their substantial population in Indian society. Despite being decriminalised by the Delhi High Court in 2018, begging continues to be stigmatised by society. The COVID-19 lockdown endangered the lives of those who beg as evidenced by their lived experiences. Although there were some efforts, governments largely failed to provide social security to people who beg during the lockdown. NGOs and some other associations, an essential part of civil society, have had more success in alleviating the undesirable predicament of the people who beg in India.
West Bengal is under intense scrutiny ahead of the general elections in 2024 since it is a crucia... more West Bengal is under intense scrutiny ahead of the general elections in 2024 since it is a crucial ground for the BJP's electoral campaign. It has long been the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) passionate goal to win Bengal. JP Nadda, the head of the BJP, has set an ambitious goal for leaders in Bengal: they must win at least 35 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in 2024. But given the current situation and other variables at work, this seems like a difficult undertaking.
The Marxist perspective of state offers a critical analysis of its origins, functions, and eventu... more The Marxist perspective of state offers a critical analysis of its origins, functions, and eventual dissolution within class-based societies framework. Marxists view the state not as a natural entity but as a product of societal transformations, serving the interests of the ruling class. Engels, in particular, highlighted the state's role in protecting the interests of property owners and regulating society. Marxist theory distinguishes between two models of state: the Instrumentalist Model, viewing the state as a tool for class oppression, and the Relative Autonomy Model, acknowledging the state's partial autonomy from direct class control. In contrast to the Hegelian and liberal perspectives, which view the state as a necessary institution, Marxism envisions a classless, exploitation-free society devoid of a traditional state apparatus.
Dr B. R. Ambedkar, one of the makers of the Indian Constitution, is known best as the emancipator... more Dr B. R. Ambedkar, one of the makers of the Indian Constitution, is known best as the emancipator of the untouchables. Ambedkar’s effort to make India as a nation through ‘breaking the internal differences’ is much debated and not widely recognized as he has still been confined only to his identity as a ‘liberating leader of the Dalits’. Ambedkar’s ideas—caste annihilation, securing rights to the depressed class, representation of the oppressed in political affairs, egalitarian economic arrangement, women’s rights and thoughts on democracy—all have the potential to be linked with his ideas of a nation, which is inclusive in nature.
Research ethics in social sciences empowers researchers and the academic community with knowledge... more Research ethics in social sciences empowers researchers and the academic community with knowledge about accepted norms and values associated with research activity. It helps in disseminating guidance and advice to researchers about the do’s and don’ts of research. Ethics inculcates scientific vigor in a study by preventing unethical misconduct. Ethics in social sciences are primarily used as an academic tool to assess the quality of a research along with the planning of a research design, reporting, and publishing findings and results.
In the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata ... more In the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee has acquired the clear mandate by winning 213 seats out of 292, where polls were conducted. On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), nationally led by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, has won 77 seats that are much less than what was expected and predicted by its regional and national leaders. Other major political parties like the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress are wiped out from the West Bengal political scenario. This study is divided into two parts. In the first part we provide a theoretical understanding of populism while the second part explores how two different variants of populism, i.e. welfare and right-wing competitive populism were used as an election tool in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021.
The paper is an attempt to address a much-debated question on the legitimacy of state interventio... more The paper is an attempt to address a much-debated question on the legitimacy of state intervention in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). At present, CSR has appeared as a topic of universal discussion. Although, the history of CSR and its origin dates back to the eighteenth century as a part of corporate philanthropy. The term CSR gained popularity since the second half of the twentieth century at the onset of the cold war and during the golden age of new social movements. Indian history has many instances of ethical and social responsibilities adopted by a few religious institutions and emperors. But, nonetheless, postcolonial India remains a mile away in achieving and accepting CSR as a part of business operations. With the Companies Act 2013, new hopes have been rekindled. The rising number of business entities brings about new challenges and new approaches towards CSR. State initiatives should not be restricted merely to legislate but opened to implementing the laws; holding...
B.R. Ambedkar is often held to be an uncompromising advocate of the cause of the depressed castes... more B.R. Ambedkar is often held to be an uncompromising advocate of the cause of the depressed castes or Dalits. But his advocacy for Dalits was within the larger framework of his vision for an Indian nation that needed to be formed, since he believed that there could be no nation unless everyone within it was not treated as an equal—an end that could be only attained through the annihilation of the caste system. He was not unmindful also of the need to protect religious minorities, for which reason he argued in favour of their adequate representation in legislative bodies, services, etc.
The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue ‘Indianness’ – ... more The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue ‘Indianness’ – a sentiment of being an Indian – socially, culturally and spiritually. This logocentric term ‘Indianness’ implies a monolithic characteristic of Indian people. Thought, action, behaviour, movement – all are under the lens of (in)visible eyes to shape all the Indians in a same mould. Democracy itself appears as a sociopolitical normativism as if it ought to be upheld by everyone. Plurality of reasons is being limited because of such normativity. At this time, message of Sri Ramakrishna, a well-known but ‘non-intellectual’ Bangalee legend, might be thought provoking while ‘Indianness’ lacks plurality of reasons. Once Sri Ramakrishna said ‘jato mat tato path’. He taught mankind to believe in allinclusiveness irrespective of people’s social, cultural and spiritual identity. His thought supports plurality of reasons and subjective reality which are the need of the hour in present day Indian context. This paper, therefore, intends to highlight the relevance of the message of Sri Ramakrishna in present day India.
International Journal of Research -GRANTHAALAYAH, 2021
In this paper we attempt to find an answer to the question – how can we revisit political theory?... more In this paper we attempt to find an answer to the question – how can we revisit political theory? This question may seem apparently simple, but the moment one start exploring, the incongruities and complexities of politics make the undertaking question highly toilsome. It is impossible to completely reject the normative framework in political analyses as far as it deals with the human society. On the other side, the age of post-truth politics also creates a difficulty to find out the objective facts and truth. So rather than arguing which method of politics is more efficient to deal with the uncertainties of human political life today, we attempt to visualize politics from a new understanding i.e., politics as absence of general agreement beyond excessive empiricism and extreme normativism. It is the antagonistic nature of human beings what keep ‘the political’ alive, and constitute the factual practices known as ‘politics’.
This paper is an attempt to examine the methodology and dynamics of contemporary political theory... more This paper is an attempt to examine the methodology and dynamics of contemporary political theory. It never denies the constructive role of the empirical facts in theory building, but refutes the claims of circumventing the role of norms, values, preferences, in the understanding of 'the political'. This is also an attempt to identify why it is impossible to completely reject the normative framework due to the inherence of the antagonistic nature of human beings. It is the plurality, diverse and ever-contesting ideas, thoughts of human beings, what keep 'the political' alive. The age of post-truth politics creates a difficulty not only to find out the objective facts and truth, but also to understand the nuances of politics.
Caste, Marginalisation, and Resistance, Brill: The Netherlands, 2024
The identity politics of the householder Naths (Yogis), on the one hand, is one of the oldest and... more The identity politics of the householder Naths (Yogis), on the one hand, is one of the oldest and most persistent identity assertions in Bengal and Assam. On the other, for an array of reasons, the identity assertion of the householder Naths of Bengal and Assam has failed to draw academic curiosity so far. Since the late nineteenth century, a segment of the Naths, largely educated and elite, has been crafting their identity as Brahman grounded on their “origin myth”, negotiating with the British colonial administration through different census enumerations, as well as internal social reforms. One of the primary reasons for their current lagging is that the Naths never politicised their identity and demands, and did not mobilise themselves in the democratic political arena.
The Palgrave Handbook of Global Social Change, 2024
Since the last two to three decades, those concepts in social sciences and literature have create... more Since the last two to three decades, those concepts in social sciences and literature have created a stir; globalization is one of them. Globalization is, as a matter of fact, closely related to the economic activities created for political purposes, which is an innovative fruit-bearing creation of neoliberalism. The goal of the ubiquitous and unavoidable processes of globalization is to link and integrate national economies with the global economy. Globalization, fueled by privatization, liberalization, and technical advancement, has increased worldwide production and trade in goods and services.
Although, in the larger sense, besides political economy, globalization is involved in language, literature, culture, clothing, food habits, health, technology, and communication. If we look deeply, we will see that the previously mentioned issues are closely related to economics and politics. Liberalization and privatization, two other comrades of globalization, further accelerated the process of globalization. Although there is a part “global” in the word “globalization,” a question may arise whether this word “global” represents the entire world or not. The debate relating to the word “global” would be focused very briefly at the end of this chapter.
This piece, therefore, looks at the concepts of globalization, liberalization, and privatization, and their effects on society, economies, and environments in the developing world. It focuses on the benefits of globalization, which include development, good governance, healthcare services, and public-private partnerships. It also examines the potential side effects of globalization, including structural adjustment, religious fundamentalism, and environmental damage. Finally, it discusses the debate over whether globalization truly represents the world or is simply “Westernization.”
Electoral Narratives of Democracy and Governance in India, 2024
This chapter titled, ‘Apolitical Community and Elections: Comparative Study of Naths in West Beng... more This chapter titled, ‘Apolitical Community and Elections: Comparative Study of Naths in West Bengal and Assam’ by Kunal Debnath argues that due to the absence of a centralised organisation, the absence of the desire to be promoted as a vote bank, political apathy of these organisations due to the belief that caste foundation will be eroded by getting in touch with politics and the absence of any political association or political vision, the main aim of the Nath community remained to have a social status and not political one. Due to the internal division among Naths on the question of securing OBC status both in Assam and in West Bengal, the Nath remains apolitical.
Encyclopedia of New Populism and Responses in the 21st Century, 2023
Welfare populism, which relies on various welfare schemes through redistribution of resources, ha... more Welfare populism, which relies on various welfare schemes through redistribution of resources, has gained immense popularity across the world in the twenty-first century. Quite a number of populist political parties, be it leftist or rightist, use welfare populism in electoral politics for securing people’s vote.
Corporate Social Responsibility in Developing Countries: Challenges in the Extractive Industry, 2023
Over the last few decades, both academic and business entities in the West and East have been att... more Over the last few decades, both academic and business entities in the West and East have been attracted to the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The modern-day definition of CSR has transcended beyond the philanthropic notion with the inclusion of CSR into core business operations. In developing societies, corporations, along with the state, are also entrusted with societal development, particularly toward the upliftment of the marginalized sections. Thus, CSR delineates a socially responsible behavior in business operations. CSR encourages the extractive industries to think beyond profits and to give equal importance to the social and environmental issues upon which they are responsible as well. Unlike the established paradigm of CSR in the West that focuses on the moral and social obligations of corporations, this chapter perceives corporate sectors as agents of socioeconomic development. Therefore, contemporary understanding of CSR should focus on the responsibilities of corporations to support the state in socioeconomic development as a stakeholder. Corporations in developing societies, in contrast to the West, are less concerned with their social performances. Weak regulations coupled with a high level of corruption restrict corporations’ engagement in socioeconomic activities. Thus, in developing countries, such as India, the state plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of CSR. In developing societies, the state not only is entrusted with making regulations related to CSR but also ensures social welfare while challenging the profit maximization of corporations. Following the Companies Act, 2013, India made CSR spending mandatory, posing challenges to the extractive industries. Hence, this chapter is an attempt to understand the systematic transformations of CSR policies in India. Unlike the neoliberal maxim of rolling back the state, this chapter rejuvenates the importance of the state in promoting CSR. For that purpose, neoinstitutionalist methodology has been employed.
In 2015, the Supreme Court of India directed the Government of India to confer the citizenship ri... more In 2015, the Supreme Court of India directed the Government of India to confer the citizenship right to the Chakma refugees, who settled in North-Eastern States in India. Arunachal Pradesh, the former North Eastern Frontier Agency, holds a large number of Chakma refugees who had migrated to India from the erstwhile East Pakistan during the late 1960s. The present benevolent approach of the Government of India towards this ethno-refugee community is having domestic as well as external implication in the backdrop of rampant deportation of refugees from its neighbouring state, Bangladesh. Mere citizenship right may result in the administrative integration of the Chakmas but could not resolve their crises as alien versus indigenous debate intensifies the refugee crises today. Over the decades, political alienation of the Chakma refugees extended their sense of deprivation and marginalization. A separate perspective is required to assess the Chakmas’ claim that they are after all not ali...
People who beg are almost invisible in public policy debates in India due to their literal absenc... more People who beg are almost invisible in public policy debates in India due to their literal absence of bargaining power, in spite of their substantial population in Indian society. Despite being decriminalised by the Delhi High Court in 2018, begging continues to be stigmatised by society. The COVID-19 lockdown endangered the lives of those who beg as evidenced by their lived experiences. Although there were some efforts, governments largely failed to provide social security to people who beg during the lockdown. NGOs and some other associations, an essential part of civil society, have had more success in alleviating the undesirable predicament of the people who beg in India.
West Bengal is under intense scrutiny ahead of the general elections in 2024 since it is a crucia... more West Bengal is under intense scrutiny ahead of the general elections in 2024 since it is a crucial ground for the BJP's electoral campaign. It has long been the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) passionate goal to win Bengal. JP Nadda, the head of the BJP, has set an ambitious goal for leaders in Bengal: they must win at least 35 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in 2024. But given the current situation and other variables at work, this seems like a difficult undertaking.
The Marxist perspective of state offers a critical analysis of its origins, functions, and eventu... more The Marxist perspective of state offers a critical analysis of its origins, functions, and eventual dissolution within class-based societies framework. Marxists view the state not as a natural entity but as a product of societal transformations, serving the interests of the ruling class. Engels, in particular, highlighted the state's role in protecting the interests of property owners and regulating society. Marxist theory distinguishes between two models of state: the Instrumentalist Model, viewing the state as a tool for class oppression, and the Relative Autonomy Model, acknowledging the state's partial autonomy from direct class control. In contrast to the Hegelian and liberal perspectives, which view the state as a necessary institution, Marxism envisions a classless, exploitation-free society devoid of a traditional state apparatus.
Dr B. R. Ambedkar, one of the makers of the Indian Constitution, is known best as the emancipator... more Dr B. R. Ambedkar, one of the makers of the Indian Constitution, is known best as the emancipator of the untouchables. Ambedkar’s effort to make India as a nation through ‘breaking the internal differences’ is much debated and not widely recognized as he has still been confined only to his identity as a ‘liberating leader of the Dalits’. Ambedkar’s ideas—caste annihilation, securing rights to the depressed class, representation of the oppressed in political affairs, egalitarian economic arrangement, women’s rights and thoughts on democracy—all have the potential to be linked with his ideas of a nation, which is inclusive in nature.
Research ethics in social sciences empowers researchers and the academic community with knowledge... more Research ethics in social sciences empowers researchers and the academic community with knowledge about accepted norms and values associated with research activity. It helps in disseminating guidance and advice to researchers about the do’s and don’ts of research. Ethics inculcates scientific vigor in a study by preventing unethical misconduct. Ethics in social sciences are primarily used as an academic tool to assess the quality of a research along with the planning of a research design, reporting, and publishing findings and results.
In the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata ... more In the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee has acquired the clear mandate by winning 213 seats out of 292, where polls were conducted. On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), nationally led by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, has won 77 seats that are much less than what was expected and predicted by its regional and national leaders. Other major political parties like the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress are wiped out from the West Bengal political scenario. This study is divided into two parts. In the first part we provide a theoretical understanding of populism while the second part explores how two different variants of populism, i.e. welfare and right-wing competitive populism were used as an election tool in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021.
The paper is an attempt to address a much-debated question on the legitimacy of state interventio... more The paper is an attempt to address a much-debated question on the legitimacy of state intervention in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). At present, CSR has appeared as a topic of universal discussion. Although, the history of CSR and its origin dates back to the eighteenth century as a part of corporate philanthropy. The term CSR gained popularity since the second half of the twentieth century at the onset of the cold war and during the golden age of new social movements. Indian history has many instances of ethical and social responsibilities adopted by a few religious institutions and emperors. But, nonetheless, postcolonial India remains a mile away in achieving and accepting CSR as a part of business operations. With the Companies Act 2013, new hopes have been rekindled. The rising number of business entities brings about new challenges and new approaches towards CSR. State initiatives should not be restricted merely to legislate but opened to implementing the laws; holding...
B.R. Ambedkar is often held to be an uncompromising advocate of the cause of the depressed castes... more B.R. Ambedkar is often held to be an uncompromising advocate of the cause of the depressed castes or Dalits. But his advocacy for Dalits was within the larger framework of his vision for an Indian nation that needed to be formed, since he believed that there could be no nation unless everyone within it was not treated as an equal—an end that could be only attained through the annihilation of the caste system. He was not unmindful also of the need to protect religious minorities, for which reason he argued in favour of their adequate representation in legislative bodies, services, etc.
The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue ‘Indianness’ – ... more The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue ‘Indianness’ – a sentiment of being an Indian – socially, culturally and spiritually. This logocentric term ‘Indianness’ implies a monolithic characteristic of Indian people. Thought, action, behaviour, movement – all are under the lens of (in)visible eyes to shape all the Indians in a same mould. Democracy itself appears as a sociopolitical normativism as if it ought to be upheld by everyone. Plurality of reasons is being limited because of such normativity. At this time, message of Sri Ramakrishna, a well-known but ‘non-intellectual’ Bangalee legend, might be thought provoking while ‘Indianness’ lacks plurality of reasons. Once Sri Ramakrishna said ‘jato mat tato path’. He taught mankind to believe in allinclusiveness irrespective of people’s social, cultural and spiritual identity. His thought supports plurality of reasons and subjective reality which are the need of the hour in present day Indian context. This paper, therefore, intends to highlight the relevance of the message of Sri Ramakrishna in present day India.
International Journal of Research -GRANTHAALAYAH, 2021
In this paper we attempt to find an answer to the question – how can we revisit political theory?... more In this paper we attempt to find an answer to the question – how can we revisit political theory? This question may seem apparently simple, but the moment one start exploring, the incongruities and complexities of politics make the undertaking question highly toilsome. It is impossible to completely reject the normative framework in political analyses as far as it deals with the human society. On the other side, the age of post-truth politics also creates a difficulty to find out the objective facts and truth. So rather than arguing which method of politics is more efficient to deal with the uncertainties of human political life today, we attempt to visualize politics from a new understanding i.e., politics as absence of general agreement beyond excessive empiricism and extreme normativism. It is the antagonistic nature of human beings what keep ‘the political’ alive, and constitute the factual practices known as ‘politics’.
This paper is an attempt to examine the methodology and dynamics of contemporary political theory... more This paper is an attempt to examine the methodology and dynamics of contemporary political theory. It never denies the constructive role of the empirical facts in theory building, but refutes the claims of circumventing the role of norms, values, preferences, in the understanding of 'the political'. This is also an attempt to identify why it is impossible to completely reject the normative framework due to the inherence of the antagonistic nature of human beings. It is the plurality, diverse and ever-contesting ideas, thoughts of human beings, what keep 'the political' alive. The age of post-truth politics creates a difficulty not only to find out the objective facts and truth, but also to understand the nuances of politics.
International Journal on Minority and Group Rights, 2022
The Rohingyas, one of the most vulnerable refugee groups in the world, have suffered from continu... more The Rohingyas, one of the most vulnerable refugee groups in the world, have suffered from continuous state sponsored terrorism by the Burmese government since Myanmar’s independence in 1948. Religion and ethnic differences are often contemplated as the major reason for the Rohingya crisis. However, this paper argues instead of only focusing upon ethno-religious dimension of the Rohingya conflict, the geo-strategic and resource centric explanation also need to be addressed. For the above-mentioned purpose, this research analyses how the Rohingya crisis is robustly linked with geo-strategic factors and politics of natural resources. In this context, the role and activities of the Government of Myanmar and military force in the Rakhine province are explained. In addition, this paper also examines the geo-economic interests of some foreign forces in Rakhine state. Based on qualitative analysis, data are collected from both primary and secondary sources such as books, journal articles, reports of government, etc. The research shows that the Rohingya’s persecution, displacement have a possible connection with the resources and geo-strategic factors that are present in the Rakhine state. This study further implies, the resources and geo-strategic factors also influence the Myanmar’s policies and actions and the engagement of military forces in the Rohingya crisis. Therefore, this new geo-strategic and resource centric explanation which are often overlooked can provide a better understanding of the Rohingya crisis.
Since the enactment of the 1982 Burmese Citizenship Law, the Rohingya Muslims have been stateless... more Since the enactment of the 1982 Burmese Citizenship Law, the Rohingya Muslims have been stateless, and they are attempting to become Burmese citizens. In Myanmar, ethnic identity continues to be the most politically significant marker stratified by government policy. Despite Myanmar’s official recognition of 135 minority groups, ethnic identities are fixed in exclusionary terms like Buddhist or non-Buddhist, Bamar or non-Bamar. Ethnicity and religion, therefore, have played a significant role in the formation of Myanmar’s national identity, that systematically excludes the Rohingyas. Hence, religion and ethnic identities are often contemplated as the major reason for the Rohingya crisis. However, contrary to the popular perception, this article argues that, along with the ethnic and religious aspects of the Rohingya conflict, the geo-strategic and economic aspects of the conflict must also be addressed with seriousness, as the conflict has occurred under a variety of political and economic conditions. It investigates the role of resource geo-economics of the Myanmar government and military forces in the recent conflict. Furthermore, this article examines China’s and India’s vested geo-strategic and economic interests in Rakhine. Findings from the research imply that the persecution and displacement of the Rohingyas may be linked to the resources and geo-strategic factors present in Rakhine.
The Indian caste system has been a complex system of hierarchy and very much difficult to compreh... more The Indian caste system has been a complex system of hierarchy and very much difficult to comprehend theoretically and in reality. The politics of reservation increases the difficulty and produces many debates in India, though it is seen as a means of promoting social justice. This small theoretical piece is an attempt to argue some perspectives to the study of caste and to provide thoughtful interpretations of some debates over reservation in India.
Since the enactment of the 1982 Burmese Citizenship Law, the Rohingya Muslims have been stateless... more Since the enactment of the 1982 Burmese Citizenship Law, the Rohingya Muslims have been stateless, and they are attempting to become Burmese citizens. In Myanmar, ethnic identity continues to be the most politically significant marker stratified by government policy. Despite Myanmar’s official recognition of 135 minority groups, ethnic identities are fixed in exclusionary terms like Buddhist or non-Buddhist, Bamar or non-Bamar. Ethnicity and religion, therefore, have played a significant role in the formation of Myanmar’s national identity, that systematically excludes the Rohingyas. Hence, religion and ethnic identities are often contemplated as the major reason for the Rohingya crisis. However, contrary to the popular perception, this article argues that, along with the ethnic and religious aspects of the Rohingya conflict, the geo-strategic and economic aspects of the conflict must also be addressed with seriousness, as the conflict has occurred under a variety of political and e...
In India, the issue of surrogacy has brought the entire field of assisted reproductive techniques... more In India, the issue of surrogacy has brought the entire field of assisted reproductive techniques under close scrutiny and debate. It has caused controversies as the state has interfered the process of surrogacy to make it ethically acceptable. Indian government acknowledged the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, to protect women's reproductive rights. The Act aims to ban commercial surrogacy and promote altruistic surrogacy without any payment except for the surrogate mother's medical expenses and her insurance coverage. This Act is the object of the first analysis of this article; and second, it investigates how the Act affects prospective childless couples, willing single parents, and members of the LGBTQ community. Employing the interview method and neo‐institutional methodology, this article concludes that the Act made the surrogacy more complex as, in actuality, altruistic surrogacy is a myth because it would be difficult for intended couples to find a willing surrogate mother who will intend to give birth to a child at no cost. This will pave the way for under the table transaction. The Act made it illegal for foreign couples as well as intended Indian couples who already have a child and restricts the chances for the LGBTQ community and single parents.
The Naths of Bengal belong to the Yogi caste which can be seen from the perspective of ‘a struggl... more The Naths of Bengal belong to the Yogi caste which can be seen from the perspective of ‘a struggle for recognition’. The Naths of Bengal have been asserting their identity and showing resistance against the Brahmanical caste order since the mid-nineteenth century through breaking the monopoly of the Brahmans over priestcraft, sacred thread, and the apex position of the caste hierarchy. All of these monopolies were challenged by the Naths and they contested their position in the system of hierarchy through the popular ‘origin myth’ of their caste. However, the question of the Naths is still unaddressed in the academic realm. Despite their social resistance against their ascribed status, the Naths are lagging in the arena of politics in post-colonial West Bengal since they are unenthusiastic to politicise themselves.
Eva Mariani's "Economics Rationality in the World of Amartya Sen", published in Qeios on March 24... more Eva Mariani's "Economics Rationality in the World of Amartya Sen", published in Qeios on March 24, 2023, is a good take of the works of Amartya Sen on rationality, choice, and development economics. By employing a descriptive qualitative approach, Mariani asserts Amartya Sen's view on economic rationality. Mariani writes Sen has strongly criticised the modern economic viewpoint that proposes two types of rationality in economic motives of individual acts. First, self-interest as a measure of rationality of action is insufficient because there are actions that are not motivated by a desire to improve one's own well-being. Second, because individual choice is not the same as preference, consistency of choice as a benchmark of rational action is insufficient. As a result, Sen introduces ethical concepts into economics as a counterpreference to his new concept of rationality. In Amartya Sen's world, economic rationality is inextricably linked to ethical reasoning. Sen contends that the strict separation of economics and ethics has resulted in one of the major flaws of contemporary economic theory.
Book review: Sekhar Bandyopadhyay and Tanika Sarkar (Eds), Caste in Bengal: Histories of Hierarch... more Book review: Sekhar Bandyopadhyay and Tanika Sarkar (Eds), Caste in Bengal: Histories of Hierarchy, Exclusion, and Resistance. Permanent Black, 2022, ₹1495, x+605 pp. ISBN: 9788178246512 (Hardback).
The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue 'Indianness'-a ... more The Indian society is undergoing a growing crisis related to a much debated issue 'Indianness'-a sentiment of being an Indian-socially, culturally and spiritually. This logocentric term 'Indianness' implies a monolithic characteristic of Indian people. Thought, action, behaviour, movement-all are under the lens of (in)visible eyes to shape all the Indians in a same mould. Democracy itself appears as a socio-political normativism as if it ought to be upheld by everyone. Plurality of reasons is being limited because of such normativity. At this time, message of Sri Ramakrishna, a well-known Bangalee legend, might be thought provoking while 'Indianness' lacks plurality of reasons. Once Sri Ramakrishna said 'jato mat tato path'. He taught mankind to believe in all-inclusiveness irrespective of people's social, cultural and spiritual identity. His thought supports plurality of reasons and subjective reality which are the need of the hour in present day Indian context. This paper, therefore, intends to highlight the relevance of the message of Sri Ramakrishna in present day India.
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Although, in the larger sense, besides political economy, globalization is involved in language, literature, culture, clothing, food habits, health, technology, and communication. If we look deeply, we will see that the previously mentioned issues are closely related to economics and politics. Liberalization and privatization, two other comrades of globalization, further accelerated the process of globalization. Although there is a part “global” in the word “globalization,” a question may arise whether this word “global” represents the entire world or not. The debate relating to the word “global” would be focused very briefly at the end of this chapter.
This piece, therefore, looks at the concepts of globalization, liberalization, and privatization, and their effects on society, economies, and environments in the developing world. It focuses on the benefits of globalization, which include development, good governance, healthcare services, and public-private partnerships. It also examines the potential side effects of globalization, including structural adjustment, religious fundamentalism, and environmental damage. Finally, it discusses the debate over whether globalization truly represents the world or is simply “Westernization.”
Although, in the larger sense, besides political economy, globalization is involved in language, literature, culture, clothing, food habits, health, technology, and communication. If we look deeply, we will see that the previously mentioned issues are closely related to economics and politics. Liberalization and privatization, two other comrades of globalization, further accelerated the process of globalization. Although there is a part “global” in the word “globalization,” a question may arise whether this word “global” represents the entire world or not. The debate relating to the word “global” would be focused very briefly at the end of this chapter.
This piece, therefore, looks at the concepts of globalization, liberalization, and privatization, and their effects on society, economies, and environments in the developing world. It focuses on the benefits of globalization, which include development, good governance, healthcare services, and public-private partnerships. It also examines the potential side effects of globalization, including structural adjustment, religious fundamentalism, and environmental damage. Finally, it discusses the debate over whether globalization truly represents the world or is simply “Westernization.”