The newly released book “Policing and Violence in India: Colonial Legacies and Contemporary Realities,” edited by Deana Heath and Jinee Lokaneeta, examines the complex relationship between law enforcement and societal violence in India. Published by Speaking Tiger, this detailed authorial portrait runs to 368 pages and is now available for ₹799. From police killings to institutional corruption, it provides a mix of firsthand accounts and scholarly essays unpacking the history and current state of policing, all across the country.
The urgency of reform in Indian policing is underscored by tragic incidents such as the custodial deaths of Jayaraj and his son Bennicks in Tamil Nadu in June 2020. In both cases, arrested for supposedly breaking Covid-19 emergency orders, both men died in custody under mysterious circumstances. Their deaths ignited nationwide protest and demanded to see the shadowy figure of accountability in law enforcement.
In addition to the deaths of Jayaraj and Bennicks, the book discusses other instances of police brutality, including the death of Faizan in February 2020. Faizan’s death came during a wave of protests that were sparked across India against the discriminatory Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The High Court subsequently called it a “gross violation of human rights,” reclassifying it as a hate crime. These incidents are tragic reminders of the arbitrariness and discrimination that pervade policing practices across India.
Policing and Violence in India tackles these fateful incidents, both politically and sociologically, revealing how colonial legacies still mold present-day policing tactics today. Heath and Lokaneeta have assembled a fascinating group of contributors to present what is a richly diverse array of perspectives. Through their work, they encourage the reader to critically consider how new policing strategies threaten our civil liberties.
The book urges stakeholders, including policymakers, scholars, and the general public, to engage in discussions about reforming policing practices in India. It highlights that knowing the historical background, from Jim Crow to George Floyd, of law enforcement is important to solving today’s problems. By grappling with these colonial legacies, the editors hope to inspire a more just and equitable system of policing.