Speaking Truth to Power : My Alternative View

by P. Chidambaram

In a parliamentary democracy, citizens always wish to hear the articulate voice of the Opposition that can offer reasoned criticism of the government and alternative policy solutions to the challenges faced by the country. In 2017, P. Chidambaram braved misinterpretation, criticism and abuse to emerge as that voice. From the reckless adventure of demonetization to the flawed GST to the Central government s economic report card that had to be marked Failed , Speaking Truth to Power is a collection of the incisive essays published in 2017 as a weekly column in The Indian Express. The essays highlight why there is a pervasive sense of disappointment after forty-three months of the Narendra Modi government. They are on a range of subjects that capture the reality of India more than the country s GDP hunger, children, privacy, intolerance, etc. In a year when Indian politics remained divisive and ugly, Chidambaram forcefully articulates his views on the Budget, the deceptive calm in Jammu & Kashmir, the implosion in the AIADMK, the intriguing verdict in the election to the Gujarat legislature and many other contemporary issues. Following principles of fidelity to truth and unbiased criticism based on sound logic, Chidambaram is at his characteristic best here. KEY SELLING POINTS Opinions of the most articulate voice of the Opposition in today s times. Backed by hard facts and indisputable numbers, the book tells you why 2017 will go down in history as the Year the Economy Tanked . The inside story of the glorious uncertainties of elections in Gujarat. The book sheds light on the real challenges that we must overcome so that the life of an average Indian in the twenty-first century will be one of of dignity, peace and prosperity.

220 pages, Hardcover

Published February 28, 2018

Reviews

[Kannan Sv]

A well compiled series of articles regarding Finance, politics, governance and policies. Simple and Sharp writing by P.C

[Rashmi]

This book, Speaking Truth To Power, is the third collection of his columns, which includes all the columns he has written in 2017, arranged neatly under different main topics. He has written on every possible "trends" of the past year: from 'Demonetization' to 'Goods and Service Tax' to 'Kashmir' and the 'Nation at Large'.

As is expected, all 63 articles are well researched, presented and induce one to ponder upon the issues prevalent in the state. Chidambaram's is one of the very few voices of reason in the Opposition which otherwise is often drowned by the ruckus and din created by those in power.

One might not agree with what he says, but that's fine, there's always room for debates and unless there are healthy debates, how will a parliamentary democracy survive?

On this note, I'll urge all of you to read if not this book, go to the Indian Express online site and look for his articles. Even if you read one of them, you'll understand what I'm trying to convey here.

[Saju]

Chidambaram has quite a few good points on several topics that Indians are currently engaged in. He quotes figures in clearly stating his case and as such makes good logic and reasoning on his assertions. An informative read for every Indian, will provide an easy grasp on how bad India's state of affairs is currently. He also provides recommendations on how corrective action should be taken to correct the many bad decisions and mistakes by the present government.