The book ‘We, The People of the States of Bharat: The Making and Remaking of India’s Internal Boundaries’ by Sanjeev Chopra invites readers across the historical landscape of India’s internal geography, spanning seven and a half decades since gaining independence. In the seventy-fifth year of India’s independence, the absence of the nine provinces of British India and the 562 princely states on the contemporary map speaks volumes about the nation’s ongoing negotiation of its political and administrative boundaries.
The reimagining of India through its constituent states, often driven by the aspirations of linguistic and ethnic groups seeking their place in the state and federal polity, is revealed as a recurring theme in the book.
What began as research into land measurement instruments for revenue records and land settlements evolved into a narrative on mapping state boundaries and documentation of India’s contemporary political history through geography, as chronicled by Sanjeev Chopra. The book draws material from reports of the States Reorganization Commission, and Linguistic Reorganization Commission, and records from state papers, including those from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
The book also tells us the history of boundary adjustments, describing the evolving landscape from 1947 to the present. It depicts redrawn lines and provides insights into the aspirations and dynamics driving these changes. Author Sanjeev Chopra’s work sheds light on the myriad boundary adjustments that have shaped the destinies of every state and union territory in India from 1947 to its seventy-fifth year of independence. It emerges as the quintessential story of India’s ongoing journey of self-definition.
We find in the book that the author poses some serious questions which suggest the necessity of writing this book ‘Why wasn’t the convenience of citizens the primary consideration in setting boundaries? This question is closely tied to the methods employed in drawing borders. While we had some awareness of the Survey of India’s activities, the specific circumstances that gave rise to these challenges were only vaguely understood.’
Rather than giving a complete overview of India, Sanjeev Chopra takes a closer look at the past system, focusing on princely states and provisional assemblies. Instead of diving in headfirst, he gently guides the reader. His research is thorough, especially in detailing states like Punjab and Orissa, which have complicated debates about how they were formed.
As a former IAS officer, Chopra emphasises the influential role of linguistic and ethnic groups in shaping state politics. The book also captures India’s post-independence evolution through internal boundaries, exploring the delicate balance between administrative needs and grassroots assertions. The anecdotal references in the book not only reveal the bibliophile in him but are also tremendously motivating.
The author’s exploration of states like Punjab and Orissa delves into the complexity of their formation, dissecting each region and enriching the narrative with material from significant commissions and state papers. The book underscores the impact of state reorganisation on India’s strength and the amplification of regional voices, highlighting the political map as a symbol of sovereignty shaped by intricate negotiations.
Acknowledged for its originality and unprecedented approach, the book recognizes the significance of maps in shaping a nation’s self-perception. He explains in the book that each region’s story. He also mentions the natural differences between the North and South in India’s voting map and how the country’s political landscape has changed over the years. This goes beyond just looking at old maps; it helps us understand how India has reshaped itself and might keep changing in terms of territory and democracy. Author Sanjeev Chopra’s analysis of changing maps, nomenclature, and political dynamics is commendable.
The book also enlightens us on the post-independence saga of India’s internal boundaries and throws light on astute negotiations with princely states like Hyderabad and Kashmir. Most important it provides valuable insights into the country’s political cartography and the North-South dynamics in India’s electoral geography. The beauty of this book lies in the Author’s sincere and unbiased approach blended with a unique writing style. The sensitivity and thoughtfulness that the writer has displayed while describing every anecdote are incredible.
The book ‘We, The People of the States of Bharat‘ goes beyond being a mere map-based historical account. It is a profound exploration of how India continues to redefine its territory and democracy. The book stands as an enlightening journey through India’s internal boundaries, unravelling the political history woven into the nation’s geographical fabric, and showcasing India’s resilience in reshaping itself over the years. Breaking down his research is a crucial part of this significant book.
Book: We, the People of the States of Bharat: The Making and Remaking of India’s Internal Boundaries by Sanjeev Chopra
Published by: HarperCollins
Price: Rs 799
