Standing Guard: a Year in Opposition

The second book by one of India’s most influential names in politics who held both the home and financial portfolios when Congressed government was formed from 2004 to 2014, P.Chidambaram offers an exceptional writing ability of a practitioner of public policy. Recommended particularly for students of economics and keen readers, this book is a collection of 51 articles published in a series of Indian Express columns authored by the former finance minister with over three decades of experience in politics and policy-making. Many topics, no matter how controversial, have been detailed from an insider’s perspective and expressed as an outsider to emphasise the complexinks between politics and economics. Covering the 2015 Bihar elections, Goods and Services Tax Bill,and acquisition amendment and Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the author does not shy away from commenting on contentious topicsike- the wasted opportunities by UPA, role of RBI, inferences of the Union Budgets, the alarming challenges thatie at the forefront for the Modi government and the formidable rise of intolerance in the nation. Due of his candid expression and understanding of electoral politics the author provides a road map for the future by giving the opposition the power to voice their insights. The book enlightens the reader of the opposition’s role to stand guard and be as responsible of the nation as the present government. The author claims that a period outside governance makes one reflect on their accomplishments and failures in their tenure and truly understandimitations of the system of administration. The book covers a wide range of topics such as economy, governance, policy and programs, foreign policies, politics andegislation. About the Author PC Chidambaram, born in 1945, is an corporateawyer, a Rajya Sabha MP and an important member of the Congress party. He has served both as the finance minister and home minister of India.