DOI: 10.5176/2251-2853_3.1.133
Authors: Susmita Sen Gupta
Abstract:
The paper examines the nationality question in India and takes a critical look at the role of the Indian state in dealing with the problems of nationalities primarily by using the unifying ideology of ‘national integration’ as a process of statebuilding. It focuses on the reactions of different nationalities, with special reference to the responses of some regional parties which have been articulating the aspirations of smaller nationalities, to attempts at assimilation and examines the contradictions arising out of the two parallel processes of national integration and identity assertion by nationalities. The paper concludes by observing that the aspirations of nationalities need not come in conflict with statebuilding in India, provided the Indian State refrains from all assimilationist moves including a resort to a forced integration which will alienate rather than integrate the emerging nationalities.
Keywords: nationality, national integration
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