Radical Politics in South Asia (Studies in communism, revisionism and revolution) Book

The importance of South Asian countries in world affairs has been widely recognized for many years. The importance of regional politics within these countries, however, is only beginning to be generally recognized. This volume is the first book-length comparative study of regional radical movements in India, Bangladesh, and Ceylon. Its seven essays focus on the indigenous factors within each region that account for the rise of radical Left parties and movements. The leading political parties and groups of both the Communist and democratic Socialist movements are considered in light of their adaptation to the local environment and their success (or lack of it) in building political strength. An introductory essay by Paul R. Brass provides a historical overview and a comprehensive analysis of the history, organization, ideology, and impact of radical Left political parties in South Asia. Six other essays based on original research by their authors have been contributed: on Kerala by Robert L. Hardgrave, Jr.; on West Bengal by Marcus F. Franda; on Bangladesh by Talukder Maniruzzaman; on Andhra by Mohan Ram; on Bihar by Paul R. Brass; and on Ceylon by Robert N. Kearney. The book includes analyses of both the electoral and parliamentary politics of the radical parties and of their roles in the major upheavals of recent years in the South Asian countries, such as the development of revolutionary violence in India, the armed insurrection in Ceylon, and the creation of Bangladesh. It also incorporates the results of the 1971 and 1972 elections in India.Read More