In an increasingly interconnected world, the ideas of democracy, social justice, and human rights have become integral to the ideologies and operations of institutions at both national and global levels. India is frequently hailed as the largest democracy in the world because of its stable electoral system, which enables recurrent elections at all governmental levels. Nevertheless, in recent years, debates around democracy, social justice, and human rights in India have intensified, fueled by contentious issues such as gendered rights, caste marginalization, environmental justice, and the erosion of democratic norms. While India has made significant strides in certain areas, there is still much attention to be paid to address systemic inequalities, protect fundamental rights, and strengthen democratic institutions to ensure the inclusive and equitable development of all its citizens. In this context, this book proposes an integrated approach to further democratization through these endeavors.
Kunal Debnath is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, India. His primary field of study includes the politics of identity and marginalization, populism, and elections. He has published research papers with publishers of international repute. He authored a monograph titled Caste, Marginalisation, and Resistance: The Politics of Identity of the Naths (Yogis) of Bengal and Assam (Brill, 2024) and co-edited a book titled Marginalised Groups in India: Historiography, Politics, and Policies (Routledge, 2025).
Bankim Chandra Mandal is a Professor in the Department of Political Science and the Dean of Arts at Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, India. He regularly contributes articles on Indian politics, Dalit politics, gender politics, and human rights. He is the author of Protective Discrimination Policy: In Search of Equality (2009), Ambedkars Quest for Just Society: An Unfinished Work (2009), and Electoral Reforms in India: Problems and Suggestions (2009).
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