Synopses & Reviews
Identity movements, based on ethnicity, caste, language, religion and regional identity, have become increasingly significant in Nepal, reshaping debates on the definition of the nation, nationalism and the structure of the state. This book analyzes the rapid rise in ethnic and nationalist mobilization and conflict since 1990, the dynamics and trajectories of these movements, and their consequences for Nepal.
From an interdisciplinary perspective, the book looks at the roots of mobilization and conflicts, the reasons for the increase in mobilization and violent activities, and the political and social effects of the movements. It provides a historical context for these movements and investigates how identities intersect with forms of political and economic inequality. Nepal 's various identity groups - Dalits, indigenous nationalities, Madhesis and Muslims - have mobilized to different extents. By examining these diverse movements within the same time period and within a unitary state, the book illuminates which factors are more salient for the mobilization of identity groups.
Bringing together empirical contributions on key issues in identity production in a comparative perspective, the book presents an interesting contribution to South Asian studies as well as studies of nationalism and identity more broadly.
Synopsis
Ethnic and nationalist movements surged forward in Nepal after the restoration of democracy in 1990, surprising observers who believed that ethnic harmony prevailed in the country. After the turn of the century, these movements entered a new phase with some groups launching armed rebellions and demanding separate territories. Ethnic mobilization and conflict is threatening to disrupt the transition that began with the comprehensive peace agreement reached between the government and the Maoist rebels in November 2006.
In this context, this book analyses the rise in ethnic mobilization, the dynamics and trajectories of these movements, and their consequences for Nepal. Contributions offer cultural, political and sociological approaches to understanding the roots of ethnopolitical mobilization and conflicts between diverse groups, the reasons for the increase in mobilization and violent activities, and the political and social effects of these movements. For the first time, the book addresses the question of nationalism in Nepal by bringing together empirical contributions on key issues in identity production in a comparative perspective. It is an influential volume in South Asian studies and studies of nationalism and identity more broadly.