State of Subversion : Radical Politics in Punjab in the 20th Century

This text explores the history of Punjab and of Punjabi migrant networks all over the world. It interrogates the term ‘radicalism’ and elucidates on its relationship with terms such as ‘militancy’, ‘terrorism’ and ‘extremism’ in the context of Punjab and other regions across the nation, in the postcolonial period.

This volume looks at the interface between ideology, religion and culture in Punjab in the 20th century, spanning from colonial to post-colonial times. Through a rereading of the history of Punjab and of Punjabi migrant networks the world over, it interrogates the term ‘radicalism’ and its relationship with terms such as ‘militancy’, ‘terrorism’ and ‘extremism’ in the context of Punjab and elsewhere during the period;  explores the relationship between left and religious radicalism — such as the Ghadar movement and the Akalis — and the continuing role of radical movements from British Punjab to the independent states of India and Pakistan.

Expanding the dimensions on the study of Punjab and its historical impact in the South Asian region, this book will interest scholars and students of modern Indian history, politics and sociology.