Giving identity to over a billion people, the Indian Constitution is one of the world's great political texts. Drafted over six decades ago, its endurance and operation have fascinated and surprised many. In this short introduction, Madhav Khosla brings to light its many features, aspirations, and controversies. How does the Constitution separate power between different political actors? What form of citizenship does it embrace? And how can it change? In answering questions such as these, Khosla unravels the document's remarkable and challenging journey, inviting readers to reflect upon the theory and practice of constitutionalism in the world's largest democracy.
'Written in clear, jargon-free prose, this critical study will be a marvellous resource for lawyers and nonlawyers alike.'
—Justice Ruma Pal, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India
'Khosla's outstanding book is far and away the most stimulating introduction to the life of our Constitution—and it signals the arrival of an important new voice in our intellectual life.'
— Sunil Khilnani, author of The Idea of India
'A wonderful introduction to an exciting subject. Khosla presents an analytical and deeply insightful account of one of the landmark constitutions of our time.'
— Justice Aharon Barak, Former Chief Justice of Israel
Madhav Khosla studied law at the National Law School of India University, Bangalore, and Yale University. He is currently a PhD candidate in political theory at Harvard University.