This book traces the trajectory of the Indian Parliament from its formation to present day. The essays presented here explore parliamentary democracy through the formative years and highlight the Parliament’s function as a representative and accountable institution, its procedures and responsibility, its connection with the other arms of the state, its relationship with grassroots democracy and the press, and its critical role in framing foreign policy and national security.

The volume frames major debates surrounding the Parliament through historical, conceptual and contemporary political perspectives. It also looks at how politics in practice is being continuously changed and challenged by new social media and further views the transformation of India’s apex legislative institution in terms of democratizing processes, constitutional values and changing mores.

The book will be of great interest to scholars and researchers of Indian politics, history, comparative politics, political science and modern India.

Ajay K. Mehra is a political scientist affiliated with the University of Delhi and coordinates the activities of the Centre for Public Affairs, a network institution of public intellectuals.