Kathghare Mein Loktantra

Democracy in the Dock: Through her democratic concerns and solid, factually logical prose, Arundhati Roy has today established herself as a prominent thinker and active social activist. Her concerns were evident in her acclaimed novel, The God of Ordinary Things, but it is a testament to her social commitment that, to express her thoughts and concerns more broadly, Arundhati Roy, defying her readers expectations, chose the medium of conceptual prose rather than fiction. Because she believes in self-perceived truth, she not only published a highly thought-provoking article on the Narmada Movement but also actively participated in it. This trend was further reflected in her writings on the nuclear issue, Americas monopolistic policies, and other such burning issues. Democracy in the Dock is the next installment in this series. In the essays compiled in this book, Arundhati Roy examines the states repression and oppression of ordinary people, whether in India, Turkey, or the United States. As the title of the book suggests, these essays question the various practices that allow democracythat is, rule of the people, by the people, for the peopleto become a slave to a handful of those in power. In her outspoken yet logical style, Arundhati Roy raises sharp and important questions that will inspire not only new ideas but also new activism. And this is a testament to Arundhatis unwavering commitment to true democracy. - Neelabh