Democracy Stillborn: Lanka's Rejection of Equal by Rajan Hoole and Kirupaimalar Hoole is a thought-provoking and critical examination of Sri Lanka's post-independence political landscape. This book presents a deep dive into the systemic inequalities and the rejection of equal rights in Sri Lanka after its independence in 1948. Through meticulous research and analysis, the authors explore how the country’s political decisions and structures led to the marginalization of various communities, setting the stage for the ongoing political, social, and ethnic tensions that still affect the nation.
About the Authors:
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Rajan Hoole is an academic and human rights activist who has spent decades researching Sri Lanka's political history and contributing to the understanding of its complex sociopolitical issues.
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Kirupaimalar Hoole collaborates with Rajan to provide an insightful and comprehensive perspective on the sociopolitical dynamics of Sri Lanka, shedding light on the repercussions of rejecting equality in the country.
Overview of the Book:
The authors argue that Sri Lanka's leaders, after gaining independence, chose a path that prioritized the majority ethnic group while neglecting the rights and equal treatment of minorities. This decision, they contend, was a significant factor in the country's failure to establish true democracy. The book discusses the political missteps that led to the creation of an environment where division and inequality prevailed, instead of embracing the promise of equal citizenship for all. Through detailed analysis, the Hoole authors trace the origins of the ethnic conflict, the systemic exclusion of minorities, and the development of policies that ignored the multicultural and multi-ethnic fabric of the country.
Key Themes:
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Post-Independence Political Structure: The book explores how the political decisions taken after independence, including the 1956 Sinhala Only Act and other key policies, marginalized minority communities, particularly Tamils.
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Ethnic Tensions: A critical look at the roots of ethnic conflict, its impact on the nation’s politics, and how it continues to shape the country's present.
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Inequality and Democracy: Analyzes how the rejection of equal rights and citizenship for all citizens led to the failure of democracy in Sri Lanka, triggering a cycle of exclusion, resentment, and violence.
Reception:
Democracy Stillborn is highly regarded for its analytical approach to the political history of Sri Lanka, offering readers a unique and critical perspective on the country's past and its enduring political struggles. The book is praised for its thorough research and ability to confront sensitive issues in Sri Lanka’s history with honesty and rigor.
Availability:
Democracy Stillborn: Lanka's Rejection of Equal is available for purchase from local bookstores and online retailers. You can find it at places like Barefoot Bookshop or SL Books for online orders.
Physical Store Location:
Book Details:
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Title: Democracy Stillborn: Lanka's Rejection of Equal
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Authors: Rajan Hoole & Kirupaimalar Hoole
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ISBN: 978-955-1264-14-0
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Publisher: Godage Publishers
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Published Year: 2022
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Number of Pages: 730
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Binding: Paperback
This book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the political complexities of Sri Lanka, offering a critical perspective on the nation’s post-independence history and the ongoing struggle for equality and democracy.
