Summary
A major challenge Pakistan has been confronted with since it came into existence is the self-assertion of various ethinic groups, which have actively contested the legitimacy of the state structure. However, despite the seriousness of this ethnic challenge, there exists no detailed study of these movements—Politics of Identity fills this vacuum.
Highlighting the role the state plays in the lives of individuals, the book
–Studies both the pre-colonial and colonial state system in India and the changes it effected till India’s independence and the creation of Pakistan.
–Assesses the state in Pakistan and explains its role in giving rise to ethnic discontent.
–Studies four ethnic movements—Pukhtun, Baloch, Sindhi and Mohajir—demonstrating how proximity to or distance from state power have influenced their politics.
–Critically reviews some influential theories of nationalism and shows how they have not adequately explained ethnic nationalism in some parts of the world.