The BSP in 2009: Still making progress, but only as a Dalit party
Résumé
Book abstract: India's 2009 Elections is an inquiry into the 15th General Elections of India. It explores how the elections played out, what factors influenced the electorate, and how the elections are an important contribution to India's democracy.Authored by renowned scholars and analysts from various backgrounds, the collection of articles critically examines multiple areas of the Indian polity:"Coalition and alliance politics, representation, national integration, and women's participation."Dominant party, competitive two-party and multi-party states including Gujarat, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, and the northeast states."Caste, tribal, and ethnic politics.According to the contributors, the public outcome of the 2009 elections indicated a demand for integrity, continuity, and competence-values that were considered almost obsolete in today's political scenario. At the same time, the contributors admit to problems in structure, providing for minority cultures, stability, and contentious public policy issues.