Politics

Stay informed on the latest political developments in Southasia with in-depth analysis, news, and stories from across the region at Himal Southasian

In search of the ‘authentic’ diasporic subject

Searching for diasporic authenticity in narratives of the past blinds us to the politics of the present.

By Parvathi Raman

/ 22 Dec 2014

In search of the ‘authentic’ diasporic subject

Representing risks

Media reports on cousin marriages among British Pakistanis deflect from measured discussions around genetic risks.

By Alison Shaw

/ 20 Dec 2014

From the land of what-might-have-been

A family tale exploring the complexities around Indian diaspora, rightwing Hindu politics, and LGBT struggles.

By Svati P Shah

/ 18 Dec 2014

Gorkhaland and beyond

Responses to the Gorkhaland agitation demonstrate the one-size-fits-all policy identity movements in India encounter.

By Swatahsiddha Sarkar

/ 15 Dec 2014

Far from concrete

India's Street Vendors Act could be a big leap forward for those it seeks to serve, but important gaps must be filled during its implementation.

By Alen John

/ 5 Dec 2014

Between the people and the polis

Southasia’s mega-cities and the urban future.

By Arif Hasan

/ 25 Nov 2014

Global capital, local labour

The Indian government’s push for so-called labour reforms will take aim at provisions that safeguard worker rights.

By Kinjal Sampat

/ 21 Nov 2014

Part-time peacekeepers

The Bangladesh Army’s record in the Chittagong Hill Tracts belies its prominence in UN peacekeeping missions.

By Hana Shams Ahmed

/ 10 Nov 2014

Thinking beyond Huntington

The increasing militarisation of Southasia’s democracies points to a shift in civil-military relations.

By Ayesha Siddiqa

/ 8 Nov 2014

States of denial

How increasing militarisation of Southasia’s conflict zones has led to severe human-rights violations.

By Seema Kazi

/ 31 Oct 2014

Where is Sodi Shambo?

One woman’s harrowing ordeal in Chhattisgarh reveals the nature and functioning of India's repressive state apparatus.

By Sharmila Purkayastha

/ 16 Oct 2014

A garrison state?

Why is the Sri Lankan army running parks, shopping arcades, a vet clinic and a beauty salon?

By Tisaranee Gunasekara

/ 13 Oct 2014