Abstract

Socio-Cultural factors rooted deep in the Indian state coupled with ambition of better governance and augmented engagement of diverse population in the democratic decision making have been creating thrust for statehood movements in India. Principle of regional autonomy exemplified in religious, ethnic, cultural and linguistic liberty is believed to mitigate the challenges of a participatory democracy and socio-culturally diverse entity as large as India. Statehood movements in India have disguised itself in many forms carrying its individual demands and nature. Some social movements carrying challenges of appropriating regional identity in electoral politics have led to creation of new states in India. While it is inconceivable to separate regional issues from ‘normal politics’ in a decentralised democracy, different political theorists perceive differently regarding the co-existence and co-extensiveness of party politics and social movements. Again, cultural nationalism represented by the desire to earn political self-determination within the federal structure of multicultural India to safeguard the diverse cultural identity may also be highlighted in the statehood movements of India. This research aims to establish a theoretical basis for comprehending the demands for statehood in India. It explores the features of these movements and evaluates the different processes connected to them from multiple viewpoints. This paper assesses the contributing factors to the demands for statehood, the fundamental causes behind this increase, and the practicality of implementing such a strategy.