The book “Constitutional Journey: An Overview from 2014-2024” by Rishi Raj Singh and Prince Shukla is a scholarly work which offers a meticulous exploration and detailed examination of the significant legislative changes and reforms that have unfolded during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2014 to 2024. The book is divided into four distinct sections and provides an insightful analysis of key reforms that have reshaped India’s socio-political landscape.
The first section is all about Constitutional Amendments, elucidating the significance of initiatives such as the enclave exchange with Bangladesh and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Through detailed examination, the authors illustrate how these reforms have propelled India towards greater economic integration and efficiency. The book begins by highlighting the transformative reforms initiated by the Modi government, starting with the Constitution (99th Amendment) Act, 2014. This amendment introduced the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), aiming to modernize the process of appointing judges to the higher judiciary. It sets the stage for a series of subsequent reforms that reshaped India’s legal framework and administrative processes. One notable reform discussed in this book is the Constitution (100th Amendment) Act, 2015, which facilitated the implementation of the India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement. Through this amendment, territories were legally transferred between India and Bangladesh, providing residents with the option to choose their nationality. The book also highlighted the significant milestone in India’s economic history, the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) through the Constitution (101st Amendment) Act, 2016, is also examined in detail.
The book further explores legislative measures aimed at empowering marginalized communities, including the 102nd Amendment Act, 2018, which granted constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). Additionally, the 103rd Amendment Act, 2019, introduced a reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) in educational institutions and public employment, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities.
The second section focuses on Women Empowerment, which highlights legislative efforts aimed at enhancing the societal status of women. The discussion encompasses landmark initiatives like the Women Reservation Act, 2023, which marks a significant stride towards gender equality and inclusivity in Indian politics. The third section of the book talks about the contentious issue of the Abrogation of Article 370, Article 35-A , offering a nuanced analysis of its historical context, implementation, and implications. By unpacking the complexities surrounding this decision, the authors provide valuable insights into the dynamics of Kashmir’s socio-political landscape and the government’s approach towards resolving longstanding conflicts. The final section explores India’s ideological evolution from ‘India’ to ‘Bharat,’ emphasizing the government’s commitment to governance models rooted in indigenous values and traditions.
What sets this book apart is its comprehensive approach to analyze the multifaceted nature of India’s legislative reforms under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The authors demonstrate a keen understanding of the historical context, policy intricacies, and socio-economic implications of each reform, making the book a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding contemporary Indian politics.
Furthermore, the book is commendable for its balanced perspective, presenting both the achievements and challenges associated with the government’s reform agenda.
In conclusion, the book is a seminal work that offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the legislative reforms that have defined India’s history in recent years. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of India’s political dynamics and the transformative changes underway in the country. So , This book is special because it looks at these changes from many angles. It tells us not just what happened, but also why it’s important and what it means for India’s future. It’s a good book for people who want to know more about how India is changing and why.
Professor in Comparative Literature and the Chairman of Centre for Narendra Modi Studies (CNMS). He can be mailed ta profjasimmd@gmail.com
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