[Jaffrelot, C. (2021). Modi’s India: Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy. Princeton University Press.]
Historical Context of Hindu Nationalism: The book traces the roots of Hindu nationalism back to socio-religious reform movements in the 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting the formation of organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Rise of Narendra Modi: Jaffrelot examines how Narendra Modi’s populist style and leadership have transformed the BJP and Hindu nationalism, leading to its dominance in Indian politics.
Ethnic Democracy: The book introduces the concept of “ethnic democracy,” where the majority community (Hindus) is equated with the nation, while minorities (Muslims and Christians) are marginalized and treated as second-class citizens.
Populism and Polarization: Jaffrelot discusses how Modi’s government has used populist rhetoric to polarize the electorate along religious lines, promoting Hindu culture and increasing legal protections for cows while targeting minorities.
Impact on Minorities: The book details the deteriorating situation for religious minorities under Modi’s rule, including increased harassment by vigilante groups and systematic propaganda campaigns against Muslims and Christians.
Erosion of Secularism: Jaffrelot highlights the erosion of India’s secular principles, with the BJP government promoting Hindu nationalism and undermining the rights of religious and ethnic minorities.
These themes provide a comprehensive analysis of how Hindu nationalism has evolved and its impact on Indian democracy under Modi’s leadership.
