Title: India on the Move
Author: Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra
Publisher: Ebury Press
Pages: 200
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In recent years, India has witnessed a growing conflict between differing interpretations of nationalism, sparked by pivotal events like the protests at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The protests, which began as dissent against the judicial hanging of Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat, quickly escalated into a national controversy. Students, once seen as intellectual scholars, were labeled “anti-nationals” and “jihadis”, exposing deep ideological divides within the country. This incident marked a turning point, where patriotism began to be equated with unwavering conformity, and dissent was vilified.

Slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Jai Shri Ram”, once symbols of cultural reverence and devotion, have been transformed into political tools. These phrases, traditionally running parallel in India’s socio-political fabric, now march in unison, representing a singular, exclusionary narrative. On one side stand those who define nationalism as absolute loyalty, often bordering on blind obedience. On the other, are voices advocating for a more inclusive and democratic India—one where dissent is not only tolerated but celebrated as essential to a healthy democracy.

This book delves into critical events such as the JNU protests, the farmers’ agitation, and the Balakot strikes to examine the fractures within Indian society. It highlights the struggle between a rigid, monolithic idea of patriotism and a more pluralistic vision of the nation. By exploring these events, the book sheds light on the challenges of preserving democratic values in an era of polarized politics, urging readers to reflect on what it truly means to be a nationalist in today’s India.