Behind Closed dDors: Politics of Punjab, Haryana and the Emergency

A veteran journalist who, for over six decades, has closely observed politicians and political developments in the Punjab and Haryana states of India, here lays bare some of facts which may be stunning revelations to the readers and unpalatable to the politicians. Beginning his fascinating Punjab-related stories since the early 1950s, the author focuses on the turmoil of Akali politics, Operation Bluestar, Indira Gandhi’s assassination and beyond, ISI exercises, the revival of terrorism and its fallout, and the assassination of Beant Singh, among other major events – besides describing the murky events in Haryana: the notorious pioneer of ‘defection politics. Also dwelling at length on Indira Gandhi’s imposition of Emergency in 1975, the author unveils behind-the-scene sinister goings-on –which make for engrossing reading. A.K. Chum also offers accounts of his interactions with a number of India’s eminent politicians.