With the rise of the Hindu fundamentalist BJP as a significant electoral force nationwide, Indian politics are in the process of a major shift in character. Not only is the shaky hold of Congress on power threatened by this dynamic party with its overt appeal to religious chauvinism, but the secular nature of the Indian state and delicate balance of relations between diverse religious communities are at stake.

The eminent scholars who have collaborated in this book examine both the flash point issue of the mosque at Ayodha (demolished by militant Hindus), as well as the deeper causes - historic and contemporary - underlying rising communal tension in India today/

This book constitutes a profound but accessible re-examination of many basic features of Indian society and politics.

Sarvepalli Gopal is emeritus professor of contemporary history at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The contributors include notable scholars, historians, and lawyers.