A new book titled “Policing and Violence in India: Colonial Legacies and Contemporary Realities” aims to shed light on the pressing issues within Indian policing. Deana Heath and Jinee Lokaneeta edited this edition. It dives into the ways that past history still shapes today’s policing practices. Published by Speaking Tiger in January 2025, this joint work covers 368 pages and retails at ₹799.
The book unpacks the intimate networks between policing and violence that characterize India today through the eyes of politics and sociology. It grapples not just with the original sins of colonialism that still shape policing today but with present day realities. Tying it all together, the editors have brought together contributions from the world’s foremost authors and experts. This new partnership ensures a deep, nuanced and holistic examination of these important topics.
A key aspect of the book is a shocking trend of custodial deaths across India. The backward and tragic cases of Jayaraj and his son Bennicks are prominent. They were subsequently left to die in custody in Tamil Nadu in June 2020. One of the most tragic examples was Faizan’s death in February 2020, classified by the High Court as an “egregious violation of human rights” and called a hate crime. Whether these actions were justified or not, these incidents become high-profile catalysts for reimagining policing practices to prevent further abuses.
According to the editors, perhaps more than any other educational book, this one brings to light these serious issues. It demands systemic changes to Indian policing. They stress the need to confront the historical origins of policing. This understanding is key to addressing the immense pressures law enforcement agencies face today and on the road toward restoring faith with their communities.
Policing and Violence in India, now available on Business Standard’s online store, is a crucial text not just for students, but anyone who wants to better understand the dangerous complexities of law enforcement in India. The ideas and information offered by each of these multi-disciplinary thinkers further the national conversation about the ongoing need for police reform and accountability.