What do you think?
Rate this book
Khaki in Dust Storm: Communal Colours and Political Assassinations (1980–1991) Police Diaries Book 1
Khaki in Dust Storm is a gripping story of immersive investigations led by the celebrated police officer Amod K. Kanth who found himself at the vortex of India's tumultuous period of the 1980s and early 1990s. An era of dramatic crime, assassinations and terrorism, this period witnessed the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 and the horrific riots that followed; the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi; the murder of Lalit Maken and General Vaidya; public attacks by terrorists and bloodbaths at the peak of the Khalistani militancy; India's first-ever organised mass explosions through improvised electronic device in 1985, popularly known as 'transistor bombs'; and the growing influence of drug abuse and financial frauds. Leading into the minefield of these most sensational crime investigations that rocked India, he reveals in this book facts, stories and anecdotes that have hitherto remained outside the public discourse. He pieces together the details, narrates behind-the-scene manoeuvres, and carefully constructs the psyche of the perpetrators and the backdrop, weaving together a fantastic and powerful tale. This is also a story of a cathartic evolution of a police officer who, after landing in the coveted Indian Police Service, finds his dreams challenged and confined to the restricted role in the face of India's myopic conventional policing. This resulted in his eventual metamorphosis, overwhelmed by the need to search for a wider and transformative perspective in policing that could lay the groundwork for more expanded and gratifying interactions between the police and the community.
- GenresNonfiction
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2020
13 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 23 reviews
Read
January 2, 2024"The policeman must understand for whom he is created and that his services must go to those who deserve them the most" - Amod K. Kanth
When I picked up Khaki in Dust Storm, I must admit that I had my reservations about the police service. Perhaps their portrayal by the media and the press, and my own personal turmoils when I was forced to lend a bribe, added weight to my inhibitions. By the time I turned the last page, I was a changed person with an entirely different outlook about the Indian Police Service and the policemen in our country. Amod K. Kanth who has been the recipient of several awards for gallantry and meritorious services takes me to his world with unflinching honesty and pragmatism.
He shares his days as a greenhorn when he was posted in Pondicherry when he audaciously lodged FIR for the MLA who was in question and how soon he was shown the door because the MLA was a valuable vote to the then minority Chief Minister. When he spoke of the grim post Operation Bluestar days, I felt the rancidity in the air of Delhi marred by Khalistan militants, assassination of Smt Indira Gandhi and the horrifying debacle of transistor bombings. Kanth shares the intricate details about how the riots were handled (where he was caught in the fusillade of Sikh militants), how the miscreants were apprehended and subsequently arrested, and how with great difficulty law and order was restored. He vents his frustration by mentioning the incident where several Congress leaders led by Karol Bagh MP arrived with truck loads of supporters to the police station demanding that the people arrested for looting and rioting should be released. Amod Kanth also speaks in length about the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi by the LTTE which led to the death of 80 innocent civilians. He expresses his disdain over how the political parties of Tamil Nadu supported the LTTE to gain the favour of the Tamils. I read the whole chapter with raised eyebrows for the fascinating and shocking details I read were something which couldn't be found on Google.
Kanth also speaks about his days in the North East and his encounters in handling the ULFA and other militant groups with the help of locals. The book is a treasure house of such unknown anecdotes. The author questions the authenticity of an FIR - the document which holds so much power and yet written by a policeman and not by the parties involved. Kanth has consistently hit out at what he describes as the "vintage Indian Police Act of 1861, made after the First Indian war of independence in 1857, to create a repressive police force, continues to be an archaic and unchanged system."
He speaks in length about "community policing" where the police and the public work hand in glove to ensure security and discipline in society. Although I found it idealistic in comparison to the present government and its functioning, I couldn't help but hope for such a reform. I have always seen policemen as a force detached from the society whose existence meant enforcement either by law or by bribery. But this book gave me a glimmering ray of hope as I read about Amod K Kanth and his journey in Khaki. If he can do it, why can't others?
4.4/5
When I picked up Khaki in Dust Storm, I must admit that I had my reservations about the police service. Perhaps their portrayal by the media and the press, and my own personal turmoils when I was forced to lend a bribe, added weight to my inhibitions. By the time I turned the last page, I was a changed person with an entirely different outlook about the Indian Police Service and the policemen in our country. Amod K. Kanth who has been the recipient of several awards for gallantry and meritorious services takes me to his world with unflinching honesty and pragmatism.
He shares his days as a greenhorn when he was posted in Pondicherry when he audaciously lodged FIR for the MLA who was in question and how soon he was shown the door because the MLA was a valuable vote to the then minority Chief Minister. When he spoke of the grim post Operation Bluestar days, I felt the rancidity in the air of Delhi marred by Khalistan militants, assassination of Smt Indira Gandhi and the horrifying debacle of transistor bombings. Kanth shares the intricate details about how the riots were handled (where he was caught in the fusillade of Sikh militants), how the miscreants were apprehended and subsequently arrested, and how with great difficulty law and order was restored. He vents his frustration by mentioning the incident where several Congress leaders led by Karol Bagh MP arrived with truck loads of supporters to the police station demanding that the people arrested for looting and rioting should be released. Amod Kanth also speaks in length about the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi by the LTTE which led to the death of 80 innocent civilians. He expresses his disdain over how the political parties of Tamil Nadu supported the LTTE to gain the favour of the Tamils. I read the whole chapter with raised eyebrows for the fascinating and shocking details I read were something which couldn't be found on Google.
Kanth also speaks about his days in the North East and his encounters in handling the ULFA and other militant groups with the help of locals. The book is a treasure house of such unknown anecdotes. The author questions the authenticity of an FIR - the document which holds so much power and yet written by a policeman and not by the parties involved. Kanth has consistently hit out at what he describes as the "vintage Indian Police Act of 1861, made after the First Indian war of independence in 1857, to create a repressive police force, continues to be an archaic and unchanged system."
He speaks in length about "community policing" where the police and the public work hand in glove to ensure security and discipline in society. Although I found it idealistic in comparison to the present government and its functioning, I couldn't help but hope for such a reform. I have always seen policemen as a force detached from the society whose existence meant enforcement either by law or by bribery. But this book gave me a glimmering ray of hope as I read about Amod K Kanth and his journey in Khaki. If he can do it, why can't others?
4.4/5
January 17, 2021
Khaki in Dust Storm by Amod K. Kanth is a meticulous account of the communal tension brought about by political underpinnings during 1980-1991. The author, who has been a decorated IPS officer, remembers one of the grimmest and unfortunate times in Indian history. He recollects what happened during the intervening years of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination. He also throws light on the brewing communal tension and the horrors it led to, eventually.
I have read a couple of fiction books revolving around the 1984 riots. They were heartbreaking and terrifying. However, this time, I read a nonfiction book around a time that is counted as a tragic period in Indian history. Along with that, the author also explains the vivid details of the ‘transistor bombs’ event that shook the entire nation in May 1985.
The book comprises instances from the author’s police diaries as he narrates the turbulent times from his past. He shed light on barbaric events, their build-up, and their culmination into high profile investigations. Amidst his reminiscence of the communal riots, terrorism, tearing apart of India’s fragile secularism, he also gives us an insight into how difficult it is to be an honest officer in the corrupt system.
The author discussed how the police had been shamed by the public, every now and then, for its failures. It just turns out to be an ‘easy scapegoat’ for the deeds of the miscreants. He goes on to explain that sometimes, things get out of hand and the political pressure further aggravates the problems. The system has been corrupt forever and through this book, the author provides a reflective and true account of highly volatile times. I could not help but marvel at the candor of the person who has been a part of testing times and flinch at the mention of everything wrong that happened during the mentioned period.
Towards the end of the book, the author shared his thoughts on the reforms that must be introduced in the policing system. He stands for ‘community policing’ and very well elaborates on the need for it. I am glad that I could read a book from a police officer’s perspective. If you’re looking for an impactful read, pick this one right away!
I have read a couple of fiction books revolving around the 1984 riots. They were heartbreaking and terrifying. However, this time, I read a nonfiction book around a time that is counted as a tragic period in Indian history. Along with that, the author also explains the vivid details of the ‘transistor bombs’ event that shook the entire nation in May 1985.
The book comprises instances from the author’s police diaries as he narrates the turbulent times from his past. He shed light on barbaric events, their build-up, and their culmination into high profile investigations. Amidst his reminiscence of the communal riots, terrorism, tearing apart of India’s fragile secularism, he also gives us an insight into how difficult it is to be an honest officer in the corrupt system.
The author discussed how the police had been shamed by the public, every now and then, for its failures. It just turns out to be an ‘easy scapegoat’ for the deeds of the miscreants. He goes on to explain that sometimes, things get out of hand and the political pressure further aggravates the problems. The system has been corrupt forever and through this book, the author provides a reflective and true account of highly volatile times. I could not help but marvel at the candor of the person who has been a part of testing times and flinch at the mention of everything wrong that happened during the mentioned period.
Towards the end of the book, the author shared his thoughts on the reforms that must be introduced in the policing system. He stands for ‘community policing’ and very well elaborates on the need for it. I am glad that I could read a book from a police officer’s perspective. If you’re looking for an impactful read, pick this one right away!
January 22, 2021
Sometimes I just wonder how much my reading TASTE has changed! The girl who was a die-hard fan of fables and fantasy now gobbling books that are filled with information!
After completing,"Khaki in Dust and storm " , I was feeling thankful. I thanked myself for sticking to my reading habit. It sounds odd, right ? But no fam ! There are so many things we don't know about our own country! Not everything is written in the study books .
But in this era where we are habituated with dishonesty or we actually believe that the things are Half-truths , "Khaki in Dust and Storms " is a book where the political turmoils of 70's and 80's have been brought in without any filter .
Being a Police office , he closely experienced it all and talks about now . The more I read ,more I realized how "the storms " is significant in this text .
Not only his years in "Khaki" but he talks about his childhood life and personal life ,which has made this book different from a book only filled with informs and insights ( the magic of "personal touch " you know )
I have often experienced that books like this one ,are quite hard to digest . But this book is narrated in an easy way that every reader can easily follow.
Time to add this book to your TBR ( no matter which genre you prefer to read )
After completing,"Khaki in Dust and storm " , I was feeling thankful. I thanked myself for sticking to my reading habit. It sounds odd, right ? But no fam ! There are so many things we don't know about our own country! Not everything is written in the study books .
But in this era where we are habituated with dishonesty or we actually believe that the things are Half-truths , "Khaki in Dust and Storms " is a book where the political turmoils of 70's and 80's have been brought in without any filter .
Being a Police office , he closely experienced it all and talks about now . The more I read ,more I realized how "the storms " is significant in this text .
Not only his years in "Khaki" but he talks about his childhood life and personal life ,which has made this book different from a book only filled with informs and insights ( the magic of "personal touch " you know )
I have often experienced that books like this one ,are quite hard to digest . But this book is narrated in an easy way that every reader can easily follow.
Time to add this book to your TBR ( no matter which genre you prefer to read )
January 14, 2021
Khaki in Dust Storm, was my first non-fiction pick of the year and what an informative and startling narration it had.
An unfiltered account of the cataclysmic decade of 1984-1994s that experienced a whole turnaround of Indian politics as told by Amod K Kanth, a former celebrated police official who played his own part and had been privy to high profile investigations.
Kanth, now a social worker extensively talks about the events of that period with focus on the political assassinations and the aftermath of them, the communal riots that ensued, the surfacing of the major drug cartels, 'the transistor terror' and the vicious wave of terrorism that hit the country.
Well documented by the author in his journal, and seamlessly narrated to the journalist Aradhana Hurpikar, the book is a revelation in itself. So much information has been kept under wraps from the historic decade away from the public domain that every page makes it unputdownable.
Within a day, it became free for all - killing, looting and arson. Barbaric violence was directed towards the Sikh community in Delhi as well as in other parts of the country. We didn't know, we could not even try to know what was happening elsewhere. The war was right here, under our very noses, being fought hand to hand.
The terror that ensued after the assassination of India's beloved leader Indira Gandhi, the large scale killings that the national capital saw and how the Sikh community bore the burnt of hatred finds it's way to 'Khaki in Dust Storm' and Kanth doesn't shy away from questioning the policing at any one point. But, in the same time Kanth also puts forward a spot on statement :
The ill-fated day of 10th May 1985, and the 'transistor terror' that shook India was something I had only ever heard from my father and it always had me intrigued. Kanth, vividly recounts the day when all hell broke loose on the nation and how the police investigation stemmed and was successful in holding the masterminds of the crime accountable although it is another story that the legal system failed yet another time to provide justice to the aggrieved persons!
These alongwith an uncountable number of incidents that shaped India's current politics and communal dynamics is being discussed between the interviewer Hurpikar, a fictional character and Kanth in his book Khaki in Dust Storm and he effortlessly puts down factual details in an eroxable and unbiased manner!
An unfiltered account of the cataclysmic decade of 1984-1994s that experienced a whole turnaround of Indian politics as told by Amod K Kanth, a former celebrated police official who played his own part and had been privy to high profile investigations.
Kanth, now a social worker extensively talks about the events of that period with focus on the political assassinations and the aftermath of them, the communal riots that ensued, the surfacing of the major drug cartels, 'the transistor terror' and the vicious wave of terrorism that hit the country.
Well documented by the author in his journal, and seamlessly narrated to the journalist Aradhana Hurpikar, the book is a revelation in itself. So much information has been kept under wraps from the historic decade away from the public domain that every page makes it unputdownable.
Within a day, it became free for all - killing, looting and arson. Barbaric violence was directed towards the Sikh community in Delhi as well as in other parts of the country. We didn't know, we could not even try to know what was happening elsewhere. The war was right here, under our very noses, being fought hand to hand.
The terror that ensued after the assassination of India's beloved leader Indira Gandhi, the large scale killings that the national capital saw and how the Sikh community bore the burnt of hatred finds it's way to 'Khaki in Dust Storm' and Kanth doesn't shy away from questioning the policing at any one point. But, in the same time Kanth also puts forward a spot on statement :
What I want to bring to light is that police force, which plays the special role of crime and public order controller, often becomes an easy scapegoat for ugly twists and turns of law order situations, that are created by others to serve their parochial interests. A lot of the good work gets subsumed into bad publicity, which is the mischief of a few, and it's the negative incidents that people remember
The ill-fated day of 10th May 1985, and the 'transistor terror' that shook India was something I had only ever heard from my father and it always had me intrigued. Kanth, vividly recounts the day when all hell broke loose on the nation and how the police investigation stemmed and was successful in holding the masterminds of the crime accountable although it is another story that the legal system failed yet another time to provide justice to the aggrieved persons!
These alongwith an uncountable number of incidents that shaped India's current politics and communal dynamics is being discussed between the interviewer Hurpikar, a fictional character and Kanth in his book Khaki in Dust Storm and he effortlessly puts down factual details in an eroxable and unbiased manner!
January 1, 2021
KHAKI IN DUST STORM was the book I did not know I needed to read until I actually read it!
Following the major incidents during the tenure of hardened police officer Amond K Kanth, it offers a different lens to view some of these events - a closer view so to say.
From the synopsis itself, I understood that infamous assassinations would be a part of this book. Growing up, my parents had told me of them and how they destabilized an already unstable country. The following riots and political turmoils were not easy on a country already facing so many hurdles. Operation Blue Star was another terrifying yet exciting story that thrilled the child that I was. It is indeed unfortunate that much of this history is never taught in school. For most of us, the history lessons end at the Independence and Partition era, following which we turn to our state's history.
As an officer who saw it all, Kanth takes us on an adventure ride. As I said before, Kanth provides a different, perhaps more honest lens, to view these transgressions on India's soil. The reality was indeed bitter, for there are never entirely black or entirely white truths. It is a rather gray area as I came to know. Despite it all, it was an enjoyable read and it was indeed quite informative. The writer also delves into the various nitty-gritty aspects of the state and leaves no stone unturned.
The author also brought in a fictional element through the character of Journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, and from then on, it is an interview that goes on between this journalist and Kanth. I found it apt for the story that was being told.
Overall, I recommend you savor this book - I read it over a week, and it had me ruminating at certain points. It was an enjoyable and informative read and I applaud Bloomsbury for this series. Looking forward to book 2!
Following the major incidents during the tenure of hardened police officer Amond K Kanth, it offers a different lens to view some of these events - a closer view so to say.
From the synopsis itself, I understood that infamous assassinations would be a part of this book. Growing up, my parents had told me of them and how they destabilized an already unstable country. The following riots and political turmoils were not easy on a country already facing so many hurdles. Operation Blue Star was another terrifying yet exciting story that thrilled the child that I was. It is indeed unfortunate that much of this history is never taught in school. For most of us, the history lessons end at the Independence and Partition era, following which we turn to our state's history.
As an officer who saw it all, Kanth takes us on an adventure ride. As I said before, Kanth provides a different, perhaps more honest lens, to view these transgressions on India's soil. The reality was indeed bitter, for there are never entirely black or entirely white truths. It is a rather gray area as I came to know. Despite it all, it was an enjoyable read and it was indeed quite informative. The writer also delves into the various nitty-gritty aspects of the state and leaves no stone unturned.
The author also brought in a fictional element through the character of Journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, and from then on, it is an interview that goes on between this journalist and Kanth. I found it apt for the story that was being told.
Overall, I recommend you savor this book - I read it over a week, and it had me ruminating at certain points. It was an enjoyable and informative read and I applaud Bloomsbury for this series. Looking forward to book 2!
January 21, 2021
I am appalled by the amount of Information we aren't privy to, the evil that bubbles and boils in the underbelly of our beloved country. As I turned the pages of this book, horrified and slightly tormented at the plight of people caught in the whirlwind of dirty politics and terrorism, I also applauded our police officers for their courage, determination and dedication.
Amod Kanth has compiled this book through the meticulous notes he made in his journal, back in the days when he served the country as a police officer. Supporting his vision, experiences and perspective is journalist Aradhana Hurpikar (a minor player, probably fictional, in the bigger scheme of things). Kanth's story is perturbing, free of the political angle that ads an extra, fake dimension.
Kanth narrates his upbringing, stories from his childhood days that eventually led to a thrilling career as a decorated IPS officer. Besides these tid bits, he refers to his journals and files, weaving vividly, the political scenario in India back in the 80s.
The assassination of Indira Gandhi, the era of terrorist attacks, the political innuendos and a group of public servants trying to maintain order.
'Khaki in Dust Storm' is a whirlwind of events, connected through the delicate thread of humanity, experiences and the desire to see change. An enthralling book that will keep you hooked.
Amod Kanth has compiled this book through the meticulous notes he made in his journal, back in the days when he served the country as a police officer. Supporting his vision, experiences and perspective is journalist Aradhana Hurpikar (a minor player, probably fictional, in the bigger scheme of things). Kanth's story is perturbing, free of the political angle that ads an extra, fake dimension.
Kanth narrates his upbringing, stories from his childhood days that eventually led to a thrilling career as a decorated IPS officer. Besides these tid bits, he refers to his journals and files, weaving vividly, the political scenario in India back in the 80s.
The assassination of Indira Gandhi, the era of terrorist attacks, the political innuendos and a group of public servants trying to maintain order.
'Khaki in Dust Storm' is a whirlwind of events, connected through the delicate thread of humanity, experiences and the desire to see change. An enthralling book that will keep you hooked.
April 28, 2021
Khakhi in Dust Storm: Communal Colours and Political Assasinations (1980-1991) by Amod K Kanth is a detailed journal of the major police-investigations of crimes between 1980 and 1991.
The author, Mr. Amod K Kanth is a highly decorated IPS officer. He is a social worker and has been recognized as a global hero by the US government. The book provides an insight on several national level cases like Operation Bluestar, lndira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi assassination, the riots that followed, the murders of many big political personalities, the transistor bomb attacks of 1985 and many others that terrorized our country during that period. All we know about these cases is through the lens of media and Khakhi in Dust Storm adds up brilliantly to the knowledge.
The book is very informative, providing insider information on these high-profile cases. The narrative is very impressing with the book being written in amazing language. But according to me, it could have been more interesting with a little more excitement. The book is like a diary and it grew monotonous after a time. It was not thrilling, which I expected it to be. Otherwise, if you are into Political reads or informative books, Khakhi in Dust Storm would be a really nice pick. This is the first installment of the Police Diaries series, with more to come.
The author, Mr. Amod K Kanth is a highly decorated IPS officer. He is a social worker and has been recognized as a global hero by the US government. The book provides an insight on several national level cases like Operation Bluestar, lndira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi assassination, the riots that followed, the murders of many big political personalities, the transistor bomb attacks of 1985 and many others that terrorized our country during that period. All we know about these cases is through the lens of media and Khakhi in Dust Storm adds up brilliantly to the knowledge.
The book is very informative, providing insider information on these high-profile cases. The narrative is very impressing with the book being written in amazing language. But according to me, it could have been more interesting with a little more excitement. The book is like a diary and it grew monotonous after a time. It was not thrilling, which I expected it to be. Otherwise, if you are into Political reads or informative books, Khakhi in Dust Storm would be a really nice pick. This is the first installment of the Police Diaries series, with more to come.
June 2, 2024
"In the entire history of independent India, I don't see any other period more eventful than this one- When so many political assassinations took place, so many bomb blasts happened, so many drug cartels surfaced their International spread of organised crime and so much of Indian politics exhibited science of shifts and turnarounds."
Khaki in Dust storm is a an elaborate sensational story of immersive investigations lead by Mr. Amod K. Kanth, who found himself witnessing the most deafening and vociferous incidents of the 1980s and early 1990s.
From Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984 to the bloodbaths in the Khalistani militancy to intoxication crimes and to gruesome riots, Mr. Kanth in this police diary gives an account of all the stories and the perspectives that remained stubbed during the frightening times!
Mr. Kanth pushes past the expectations of the behind-the-scenes manoeuvres and creates an immersive tale of all the incidents that shaped the Indian Politics initially and gave way to the communal interactions that we have today!
Khaki in Dust Storm is not just a book, it's a voice, that was earlier confined to the ears of some but is now for the people to hear and discern!
The heinous crimes and the tragic tales, that Mr. Kanth has narrated with such poignant and political sagacity, are something every Indian should read about to weave their heads around the gravity of that tumultuous period!
Mr. Kanth in this book has brilliantly put forward all the information he wanted to give to the people and the lessons that he learned in his cathartic evolution through a series of dust storms! He has also given his suggestions for more attitudinal and functional changes in the system of interactions between the police and the community.
"In the words of David H. Bayley, who is considered an expert on different methods of policing, "The idea of community policing is a multi-pronged approach using a variety of aspects, such as broadening of the duties of the police officers and individualizing the practices to the community they are policing."
If you want to read an immersive and powerful read, then this informative and didactic Police Diary by Mr. Kanth is one must read for you!
Khaki in Dust storm is a an elaborate sensational story of immersive investigations lead by Mr. Amod K. Kanth, who found himself witnessing the most deafening and vociferous incidents of the 1980s and early 1990s.
From Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984 to the bloodbaths in the Khalistani militancy to intoxication crimes and to gruesome riots, Mr. Kanth in this police diary gives an account of all the stories and the perspectives that remained stubbed during the frightening times!
Mr. Kanth pushes past the expectations of the behind-the-scenes manoeuvres and creates an immersive tale of all the incidents that shaped the Indian Politics initially and gave way to the communal interactions that we have today!
Khaki in Dust Storm is not just a book, it's a voice, that was earlier confined to the ears of some but is now for the people to hear and discern!
The heinous crimes and the tragic tales, that Mr. Kanth has narrated with such poignant and political sagacity, are something every Indian should read about to weave their heads around the gravity of that tumultuous period!
Mr. Kanth in this book has brilliantly put forward all the information he wanted to give to the people and the lessons that he learned in his cathartic evolution through a series of dust storms! He has also given his suggestions for more attitudinal and functional changes in the system of interactions between the police and the community.
"In the words of David H. Bayley, who is considered an expert on different methods of policing, "The idea of community policing is a multi-pronged approach using a variety of aspects, such as broadening of the duties of the police officers and individualizing the practices to the community they are policing."
If you want to read an immersive and powerful read, then this informative and didactic Police Diary by Mr. Kanth is one must read for you!
January 17, 2021
Turmoil is really very common. It's all around us. When we feel a quake, we never actually sit to think upon how deep-rooted the epicentre is. We often find refuge in instincts, in panic-driven sharp decisions. How far the tremors have travelled, how many foundations it has uprooted, and how many lives it has claimed—these thoughts mostly come into the picture when the terror is over. When the explosion has dissipated, when the smoke has cleared and rumble moved, only then do we start to count the bodies, evaluate the losses. Not before that. Bottom line is: damage of a turmoil is very oriented to perspective. Like an iceberg peeping out of deep-sea trenches, we are sometimes inadvertently taught not to dig out more complications. We are taught against burrowing in tainted soils, warned against vandalizing rumbles and dust to find relics of violent times.
Like every other nation, India’s history has been slaughtered with many brutal atrocities, many cold-blooded disarrays and masterful assassinations. The thirst for power, the attraction to influence and deep, instigated grief has caused teeming millions of citizens to wreak havoc in their own country’s soil. Fields have been caked with clotted blood, family trees tainted with injustice and further corruptions have made way for deeper division, repulsion and disparity. The history of India from the early 1980s to late 1990s is similarly a decade of deep turmoil, of huge tremors and vigorous political decisions. What started as the ultimate execution of operation Blue Star, soon led way to the disturbing assassination of PM Indira Gandhi, paving the road for the 1980s Sikh riots. Bomb blasts of the 1980s, the successive assassination of Rajiv Gandhi—these are milestones in India’s tattered pages of history.
Often, what is seen is not what actually exists. The only way for a citizen to rise up from the ripples of effects that these political quakes conjure, and actually look at these major events more closely is through deep observation, extensive research and a well-rounded guided hunger to know more. But the citizen’s feed of information is through the filter that the media puts up, along with an added dose of more intensive hatred, rumours and TRP-targetted jugglery of news. Be it through newspapers, or through the national television barring some direct press-conferences, the citizen’s understanding of what had happened seems to be quite transparent, unless another revelation throws some mud at that clean, transparent sheen. The inside story is sometimes much more raw, much more uncensored and less people-friendly. That is why it's painted and disguised to become the less instigating outside story, which can be released to the masses more reasonably.
‘Khaki in Dust Storm’ is an attempt of ex-IPS officer Amod K. Kanth to provide a glimpse of this ‘inside story’, that which heralds a fresh viewpoint of these tremors from the point of view of a human who had seen it up close. Kanth’s experience as a high-ranked police officer and being a part of the investigation bureau has made him privy to facts and figures which is kept hidden from the general population, lest too much revelation cooks up a storm. If such news (painted or raw) does eventually call for massive quakes, stirring up dust storms, these police forces are the ones meeting the storm heads on with their Khaki uniforms.
Kanth’s tone in the first volume of his memoir is starkly narrative, calling for a vast descriptive style of introspection. With very negligible causes or spaces of unnecessary fictionization, the book holds up scenarios in vicious honesty. Kanth’s pride in having served in the police forces is evident, and his modesty and strong character rises up from the pages very naturally. Kanth speaks with a tongue of truth. His voice is deep, yet very humane. He makes perhaps a conscious effort to demystify certain myths that have surrounded India’s history of the 1980s, moreover trying to clear away some haziness that these sensitive topics might have garnered over the years. In doing so, Kanth has tried to portray a righteous and neutral side to the police forces, making them alight on the pages as actual humans on duty—and not just robot-armed battalions. But quite contradictorily, very little is spoken of the errors that the police could have made in those tight situations, and very less exploration is made to put up a lesser perfect image of the civil forces. In an attempt to give a non-prejudiced, diplomatic take on these incidents, he has had to sometimes take a very fragile stance, which can have multiple levels of transparency or opacity. Being an officer who is highly regarded and is excellently decorated, the author does take up a proud, steady voice, which at times tilts to a self-congratulatory side. Visible extensive collection of facts, their proper chronological accurate sequencing and a smooth execution—these are features of the end product, that is this book. But the more important part is what Kanth has chosen to speak about, what arenas he has again chosen to step into and what old, rusted soil he has again tried to stimulate.
The book is certainly marked by acute details, with nail-biting accounts that speak for themselves. But it is seldom introductory. Most of the book could perceive to be illegible to a reader who isn’t accustomed to a basic outline of the major political happenings in that decade. With too much emphasis of technicalities, an increased attention to minute details of facts and statistics, the book often biases towards a heavy read. The capturing of both the factual and the more personal, psychological accounts of the events is massively notable, but in doing so the book attaches to itself a glint of mismanaged consistency and some jagged, unsettling facets.
Thanks Bloomsbury India for the book.
Like every other nation, India’s history has been slaughtered with many brutal atrocities, many cold-blooded disarrays and masterful assassinations. The thirst for power, the attraction to influence and deep, instigated grief has caused teeming millions of citizens to wreak havoc in their own country’s soil. Fields have been caked with clotted blood, family trees tainted with injustice and further corruptions have made way for deeper division, repulsion and disparity. The history of India from the early 1980s to late 1990s is similarly a decade of deep turmoil, of huge tremors and vigorous political decisions. What started as the ultimate execution of operation Blue Star, soon led way to the disturbing assassination of PM Indira Gandhi, paving the road for the 1980s Sikh riots. Bomb blasts of the 1980s, the successive assassination of Rajiv Gandhi—these are milestones in India’s tattered pages of history.
Often, what is seen is not what actually exists. The only way for a citizen to rise up from the ripples of effects that these political quakes conjure, and actually look at these major events more closely is through deep observation, extensive research and a well-rounded guided hunger to know more. But the citizen’s feed of information is through the filter that the media puts up, along with an added dose of more intensive hatred, rumours and TRP-targetted jugglery of news. Be it through newspapers, or through the national television barring some direct press-conferences, the citizen’s understanding of what had happened seems to be quite transparent, unless another revelation throws some mud at that clean, transparent sheen. The inside story is sometimes much more raw, much more uncensored and less people-friendly. That is why it's painted and disguised to become the less instigating outside story, which can be released to the masses more reasonably.
‘Khaki in Dust Storm’ is an attempt of ex-IPS officer Amod K. Kanth to provide a glimpse of this ‘inside story’, that which heralds a fresh viewpoint of these tremors from the point of view of a human who had seen it up close. Kanth’s experience as a high-ranked police officer and being a part of the investigation bureau has made him privy to facts and figures which is kept hidden from the general population, lest too much revelation cooks up a storm. If such news (painted or raw) does eventually call for massive quakes, stirring up dust storms, these police forces are the ones meeting the storm heads on with their Khaki uniforms.
Kanth’s tone in the first volume of his memoir is starkly narrative, calling for a vast descriptive style of introspection. With very negligible causes or spaces of unnecessary fictionization, the book holds up scenarios in vicious honesty. Kanth’s pride in having served in the police forces is evident, and his modesty and strong character rises up from the pages very naturally. Kanth speaks with a tongue of truth. His voice is deep, yet very humane. He makes perhaps a conscious effort to demystify certain myths that have surrounded India’s history of the 1980s, moreover trying to clear away some haziness that these sensitive topics might have garnered over the years. In doing so, Kanth has tried to portray a righteous and neutral side to the police forces, making them alight on the pages as actual humans on duty—and not just robot-armed battalions. But quite contradictorily, very little is spoken of the errors that the police could have made in those tight situations, and very less exploration is made to put up a lesser perfect image of the civil forces. In an attempt to give a non-prejudiced, diplomatic take on these incidents, he has had to sometimes take a very fragile stance, which can have multiple levels of transparency or opacity. Being an officer who is highly regarded and is excellently decorated, the author does take up a proud, steady voice, which at times tilts to a self-congratulatory side. Visible extensive collection of facts, their proper chronological accurate sequencing and a smooth execution—these are features of the end product, that is this book. But the more important part is what Kanth has chosen to speak about, what arenas he has again chosen to step into and what old, rusted soil he has again tried to stimulate.
The book is certainly marked by acute details, with nail-biting accounts that speak for themselves. But it is seldom introductory. Most of the book could perceive to be illegible to a reader who isn’t accustomed to a basic outline of the major political happenings in that decade. With too much emphasis of technicalities, an increased attention to minute details of facts and statistics, the book often biases towards a heavy read. The capturing of both the factual and the more personal, psychological accounts of the events is massively notable, but in doing so the book attaches to itself a glint of mismanaged consistency and some jagged, unsettling facets.
Thanks Bloomsbury India for the book.
March 25, 2021
4.5/5
Amod Kanth's name is known by almost everyone, from Charles Sobhraj case to Jessica Lal's murder, his body of work isn't hidden from anyone. This book aims at making the public know about many such riveting incidents & how he worked within a system with deep flaws to bring justice.
The first book in a series, Khaki in the Dust Storm opens the world of crime & terrorism in late 20th century India to us & swoops us right into it. We all historically know the incidents but this books gives us an insider's view which surely makes it even more exciting.
It also explores the area of evolution of an officer with time & how it changed him as a person. A one of a kind book that I have been wanting to read since a long time. Truly a must read. Can't wait for the next part.
Amod Kanth's name is known by almost everyone, from Charles Sobhraj case to Jessica Lal's murder, his body of work isn't hidden from anyone. This book aims at making the public know about many such riveting incidents & how he worked within a system with deep flaws to bring justice.
The first book in a series, Khaki in the Dust Storm opens the world of crime & terrorism in late 20th century India to us & swoops us right into it. We all historically know the incidents but this books gives us an insider's view which surely makes it even more exciting.
It also explores the area of evolution of an officer with time & how it changed him as a person. A one of a kind book that I have been wanting to read since a long time. Truly a must read. Can't wait for the next part.
December 23, 2020
"Khaki in dust storm" by Amod Kanth is an immersive story of interesting stories that grasps it's readers attention immediately.
A memoir of it's kind - Khaki in dust storm - is the diary of a hardcore police who has done active police work for half a decade. This book covers the complexities and political turmoils during the mid 70s and 80s - an era of extreme political unrest and hullabaloo. This era saw assassinations so unexpected that they shook the country to it's core. The assassinations of Mahatma gandhi, Indira gandhi followed by Rajiv Gandhi were both horrific and terrifying. The bloodbaths that followed, operation blue star, riots and terrorist activities caused immense agitation within the minds of the Indians.
Amod Kanth takes us on a ride of nail biting adventures and behind the scene operations that were unknown, atleast to me. Being a student of political science and history, I was extremely pleased and shocked at the same time to know the grim truths that are narrated throughout this book and are left unmentioned in our text books. This book has been a pleasure to read, so it has been insightful. The language flows lucidly and the author weaves a trail of details together that comes out as powerful and mighty. The book questions the pre concurred notions and the dialects of the system.
Amod Kanth readily amalgamates reality with a touch of fiction, he leaves no leafs unturned when talking about the Police system. He talks about media, politics, drugs and affairs of the state in great depth.
I personally loved the way the book was filled upto the brim with information and comprehension. The author did not hesitate to expose the truth, nor he was hung back on to clinging to what the readers want to listen, he takes you on a ride and makes sure you see the reality of it.
In an age where truth has become oblivious and dishonesty and deception has become the religion, this book was a much needed blow.
.
A memoir of it's kind - Khaki in dust storm - is the diary of a hardcore police who has done active police work for half a decade. This book covers the complexities and political turmoils during the mid 70s and 80s - an era of extreme political unrest and hullabaloo. This era saw assassinations so unexpected that they shook the country to it's core. The assassinations of Mahatma gandhi, Indira gandhi followed by Rajiv Gandhi were both horrific and terrifying. The bloodbaths that followed, operation blue star, riots and terrorist activities caused immense agitation within the minds of the Indians.
Amod Kanth takes us on a ride of nail biting adventures and behind the scene operations that were unknown, atleast to me. Being a student of political science and history, I was extremely pleased and shocked at the same time to know the grim truths that are narrated throughout this book and are left unmentioned in our text books. This book has been a pleasure to read, so it has been insightful. The language flows lucidly and the author weaves a trail of details together that comes out as powerful and mighty. The book questions the pre concurred notions and the dialects of the system.
Amod Kanth readily amalgamates reality with a touch of fiction, he leaves no leafs unturned when talking about the Police system. He talks about media, politics, drugs and affairs of the state in great depth.
I personally loved the way the book was filled upto the brim with information and comprehension. The author did not hesitate to expose the truth, nor he was hung back on to clinging to what the readers want to listen, he takes you on a ride and makes sure you see the reality of it.
In an age where truth has become oblivious and dishonesty and deception has become the religion, this book was a much needed blow.
.
January 12, 2021
“We cannot have a modern Indian state unless the police, which is the kingpin of the criminal justice system, is reorganized and restructured."
Amod K. Kant, a highly celebrated IPS officer who has encountered some of the most critical and sensitive incidents of history from 1980-199. Apart from his policing career, he has also worked for underprivileged and deprived sections of the society across the country.
"Facts in this book are more fascinating than fiction"
This book is a substantial and factual account of awfully captivating investigations ( during the stormy period of 1980-1991, an era of a horrific crime, assassinations and terrorism ) led by a police officer, who talks about reforms in police, criminal and juvenile justice system to enrich their optimistic and significant responsiveness to the public institutions and policy-making bodies.
In this book he narrates the background stories of political assassinations took place during this most dramatic period of modern history, this period sighted the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984. This was an event complete shaken-up the country. Mrs Indira Gandhi had been the most powerful Prime Minister of India, for 18 years. She had almost become synonymous with the country. She was the visible symbol of national unity, an intimidating presence that could hold the fragile country together, whether in terms of internal security or guarding the borders for external threats. It also talks about the most popular 'transistor bombs' conspiracy of 1985 and its investigation stories. He uncovers the facts and occurrences that have stayed outside the public discourse.
This sensational journey was not easy for him, because, Kanth faced several volatile events like the anti-Sikh riots in the initial part of his policing career had taught him to look at issues from a socio-political attitude. This proficiency to understand the fine portraits of Indian society went on to encourage him to become one of the settlers of “ community policing" in the country.
For me, it was an incredible experience to read this book.
Amod K. Kant, a highly celebrated IPS officer who has encountered some of the most critical and sensitive incidents of history from 1980-199. Apart from his policing career, he has also worked for underprivileged and deprived sections of the society across the country.
"Facts in this book are more fascinating than fiction"
This book is a substantial and factual account of awfully captivating investigations ( during the stormy period of 1980-1991, an era of a horrific crime, assassinations and terrorism ) led by a police officer, who talks about reforms in police, criminal and juvenile justice system to enrich their optimistic and significant responsiveness to the public institutions and policy-making bodies.
In this book he narrates the background stories of political assassinations took place during this most dramatic period of modern history, this period sighted the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984. This was an event complete shaken-up the country. Mrs Indira Gandhi had been the most powerful Prime Minister of India, for 18 years. She had almost become synonymous with the country. She was the visible symbol of national unity, an intimidating presence that could hold the fragile country together, whether in terms of internal security or guarding the borders for external threats. It also talks about the most popular 'transistor bombs' conspiracy of 1985 and its investigation stories. He uncovers the facts and occurrences that have stayed outside the public discourse.
This sensational journey was not easy for him, because, Kanth faced several volatile events like the anti-Sikh riots in the initial part of his policing career had taught him to look at issues from a socio-political attitude. This proficiency to understand the fine portraits of Indian society went on to encourage him to become one of the settlers of “ community policing" in the country.
For me, it was an incredible experience to read this book.
December 24, 2020
Khaki in Dust Storm( police diaries book 1) by Amod K. Kanth is a collection of detailed investigations by the author and celebrated police officer between 1980-the 90s.
I was personally excited to read this book because of my eager interest in true crime stories and how investigations are carry forward to solve them.
The book divided into fifteen chapters brings a good portrayal of some very heinous and tragic events in Indian history. From Indira Gandhi's assassin leading to 1984 riots, and the murders of some known and significant police officers, the author has brought the narrative non-fictional accounts of these crimes, and how, they got investigated.
The narration of the book is woven through an interview between fictional character, Journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, and the author himself.
Along with that, intricacies of how to become a cop, how to deal with critical situations are advised by the author through his real-life experience.
This book stands out because of the anecdotes provided are not found in newspaper clippings or articles found on the internet.
Although some of the details can be too much for the readers as they might not be aware of some sections of the law, the author has done his best to simplify it.
I liked the fact that this book not just talks about the one-sided notion of the policing but also about why that crime happened in the first place and its motive. Which shows the author really wants police administration to have gratifying interaction between police and community.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you're interested in law and order, politics and policing, please read this book.
I was personally excited to read this book because of my eager interest in true crime stories and how investigations are carry forward to solve them.
The book divided into fifteen chapters brings a good portrayal of some very heinous and tragic events in Indian history. From Indira Gandhi's assassin leading to 1984 riots, and the murders of some known and significant police officers, the author has brought the narrative non-fictional accounts of these crimes, and how, they got investigated.
The narration of the book is woven through an interview between fictional character, Journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, and the author himself.
Along with that, intricacies of how to become a cop, how to deal with critical situations are advised by the author through his real-life experience.
This book stands out because of the anecdotes provided are not found in newspaper clippings or articles found on the internet.
Although some of the details can be too much for the readers as they might not be aware of some sections of the law, the author has done his best to simplify it.
I liked the fact that this book not just talks about the one-sided notion of the policing but also about why that crime happened in the first place and its motive. Which shows the author really wants police administration to have gratifying interaction between police and community.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you're interested in law and order, politics and policing, please read this book.
January 9, 2021
This book has an incredible narration. As Kanth tells us about his work as a police officer, there are times when it will make you think how hard it is for the good cops to work in an otherwise corrupt system. Not only does Kanth talk about his work, but also his personal life and his childhood - how he was inspired to become a public servant.
Kanth refers to the events of his police career that threw him in a pinch as 'dust storms'. And we have been present in his journey of fighting against these 'dust storms' through this incredibly crafted book. Kanth's journey for bringing innovations and justice to the country is awe-inspiring; and this book is not just uplifting but an informational bundle of one of India's darkest period.
This book has an incredible narration. As Kanth tells us about his work as a police officer, there are times when it will make you think how hard it is for the good cops to work in an otherwise corrupt system. Not only does Kanth talk about his work, but also his personal life and his childhood - how he was inspired to become a public servant.
Kanth refers to the events of his police career that threw him in a pinch as 'dust storms'. And we have been present in his journey of fighting against these 'dust storms' through this incredibly crafted book. Kanth's journey for bringing innovations and justice to the country is awe-inspiring; and this book is not just uplifting but an informational bundle of one of India's darkest period.
Read a detailed review on my blog - https://www.diaryofabookgirl.in/2021/...
Kanth refers to the events of his police career that threw him in a pinch as 'dust storms'. And we have been present in his journey of fighting against these 'dust storms' through this incredibly crafted book. Kanth's journey for bringing innovations and justice to the country is awe-inspiring; and this book is not just uplifting but an informational bundle of one of India's darkest period.
This book has an incredible narration. As Kanth tells us about his work as a police officer, there are times when it will make you think how hard it is for the good cops to work in an otherwise corrupt system. Not only does Kanth talk about his work, but also his personal life and his childhood - how he was inspired to become a public servant.
Kanth refers to the events of his police career that threw him in a pinch as 'dust storms'. And we have been present in his journey of fighting against these 'dust storms' through this incredibly crafted book. Kanth's journey for bringing innovations and justice to the country is awe-inspiring; and this book is not just uplifting but an informational bundle of one of India's darkest period.
Read a detailed review on my blog - https://www.diaryofabookgirl.in/2021/...
February 26, 2021
So, I read this non-fiction which is a description of key events that emerged in India during the 1980s & 1990s
The volume is a memo of the story which many of us are never familiar with. You can say it a 'behind-the-scenes' that takes place when the police have to maintain and create law & order during any hard crisis that arises in a diverse country like India.
Through an Interview session with Aradhna, Amod Kanth a former IPS of AGMUT cadre is telling some unfamiliar facets of the period when India was facing secessionist movements in the 1970s and former PM Indira Gandhi was assassinated in the wake of it.
When communalism was concocting in the heart of Delhi and riots could happen at any moment.
When the hazard of the drug was being infiltrated into the country & extremism was high & Delhi faced the terror of transistor bombs one after another.
What the officer who was in charge during all these happenings have to say about these episodes and what more he has to share about the other side of the story is the book all about.
I liked flipping through it since I am eager to understand the events of history and various interpretations or ordeals of people during that time. So if you too like browsing such non-fiction then this is a must-read for you & also if you're interested in entering the police forces, just go for it. You will learn a lot.
Though it was a strong Non-Fiction talking about crime, assassination, terror attacks there was a chapter that almost got tears to my eyes and it was 'Some Told and Untold stories during the 1984 Riots' It showed me the cruellest human beings can come to be at times.
The volume is a memo of the story which many of us are never familiar with. You can say it a 'behind-the-scenes' that takes place when the police have to maintain and create law & order during any hard crisis that arises in a diverse country like India.
Through an Interview session with Aradhna, Amod Kanth a former IPS of AGMUT cadre is telling some unfamiliar facets of the period when India was facing secessionist movements in the 1970s and former PM Indira Gandhi was assassinated in the wake of it.
When communalism was concocting in the heart of Delhi and riots could happen at any moment.
When the hazard of the drug was being infiltrated into the country & extremism was high & Delhi faced the terror of transistor bombs one after another.
What the officer who was in charge during all these happenings have to say about these episodes and what more he has to share about the other side of the story is the book all about.
I liked flipping through it since I am eager to understand the events of history and various interpretations or ordeals of people during that time. So if you too like browsing such non-fiction then this is a must-read for you & also if you're interested in entering the police forces, just go for it. You will learn a lot.
Though it was a strong Non-Fiction talking about crime, assassination, terror attacks there was a chapter that almost got tears to my eyes and it was 'Some Told and Untold stories during the 1984 Riots' It showed me the cruellest human beings can come to be at times.
January 18, 2021
Khaki in Dust Storm was my first non-fiction pick of this year and I'm glad to have read such a detailed and informative collection.
It is an amalgamation of stories from the experiences of a dedicated police officer Amod K. Kanth who has been in the police department for almost a decade. In this, Kanth has shared about his work experiences, the inspiration that made his to choose this department and how difficult it becomes to work with honesty in a broken and despicable system. The era of the 70s-80s was complete political turmoil for India, this book covers much of that political commotion in it. The assassination of prominent political leaders, Mahatma Gandhi followed by Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi shook the whole country. The following riots and terrorist activities disrupted the already turbulent country even more and through this book, Kanth has given a distinct yet honest arc to India's one of the darkest periods.
The language used is lucid but audacious at the same time. Narration in form of a memoir didn't felt formal at all and there wasn't any dull moment in the entire book rather it was quite a bold and adventurous read for me.
A vivid, profound and instructive book highlighting some of the controversial events that clattered the entire nation back then. It was a kind of book that I didn't know I should be reading until I actually finished reading it, would suggest to read it to gather some peculiar yet honest lens of that era and the impacts it had in the whole nation.
Thanks to @bloomsburyindia for the proof copy.
#khakiinduststorm #policediaries
It is an amalgamation of stories from the experiences of a dedicated police officer Amod K. Kanth who has been in the police department for almost a decade. In this, Kanth has shared about his work experiences, the inspiration that made his to choose this department and how difficult it becomes to work with honesty in a broken and despicable system. The era of the 70s-80s was complete political turmoil for India, this book covers much of that political commotion in it. The assassination of prominent political leaders, Mahatma Gandhi followed by Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi shook the whole country. The following riots and terrorist activities disrupted the already turbulent country even more and through this book, Kanth has given a distinct yet honest arc to India's one of the darkest periods.
The language used is lucid but audacious at the same time. Narration in form of a memoir didn't felt formal at all and there wasn't any dull moment in the entire book rather it was quite a bold and adventurous read for me.
A vivid, profound and instructive book highlighting some of the controversial events that clattered the entire nation back then. It was a kind of book that I didn't know I should be reading until I actually finished reading it, would suggest to read it to gather some peculiar yet honest lens of that era and the impacts it had in the whole nation.
Thanks to @bloomsburyindia for the proof copy.
#khakiinduststorm #policediaries
June 10, 2021
For somebody who is born and brought up in Delhi will relate with the detailed information given in this book on the various terrorist activities that jolted the city during 1980-1991. Unfortunately, the city of Delhi has always been the epicentre for nefarious activities and alike.
‘Khaki in Dust Storm’ is extremely well written by the then IPS officer, Amod Kanth, who recounts his experiences in handling the dreadful such cases that not only brought national shame and attention, but headlined, international news as well. From the assassination of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi to the atrocities pelted on the Sikhs during the 1984 riots, the insight is thorough and detailed.
Indian policing has quite often been under the radar for its lack of empathy towards the civilians. As Amod Kanth himself would write “In Delhi, thulla, a derogatory epithet, is used by the public for police. It shows that a policeman is despised in the society and definitely not seen as a friend, who uses his power to exploit and terrorise the common man.”
Most commonly, a civilian has rebelled and out of revenge, taken to terrorism. Which in turn got fuelled up by various extremist, separatist and political organisations. Do consider reading this book as it won’t leave you disappointed. 📚
‘Khaki in Dust Storm’ is extremely well written by the then IPS officer, Amod Kanth, who recounts his experiences in handling the dreadful such cases that not only brought national shame and attention, but headlined, international news as well. From the assassination of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi to the atrocities pelted on the Sikhs during the 1984 riots, the insight is thorough and detailed.
Indian policing has quite often been under the radar for its lack of empathy towards the civilians. As Amod Kanth himself would write “In Delhi, thulla, a derogatory epithet, is used by the public for police. It shows that a policeman is despised in the society and definitely not seen as a friend, who uses his power to exploit and terrorise the common man.”
Most commonly, a civilian has rebelled and out of revenge, taken to terrorism. Which in turn got fuelled up by various extremist, separatist and political organisations. Do consider reading this book as it won’t leave you disappointed. 📚
January 13, 2021
I started my new year with this book. This book documents the life of an IPS officer. Having hailed from a fam which has served police force for generations, I have always had admiration for the men in khaki. This book elucidates on major cases esply political assassinations that shook our country. As also it shows us the lifestyle of a police officer. That's my review in a nutshell. For a detailed review do check my instagram account- instagram.com/book_gobbler or follow me on wordpress ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress.com
Read
December 6, 2021Interesting
February 12, 2022
Experiences of a decorated police officer where he has covered some major assassinations during his carrier and the aftermath. A big chunk covers the assassination of Indira Gandhi.
January 9, 2021
"A policeman has to manage the civic life of people so that our society remains peaceful, organised and progressive. For me, a policeman's work should be connected with the daily life of the people without giving the people at large any sense of uncertainty, fear or terror. In fact, a policeman should be a part of people's life as a friendly and useful associate."
Amod K. Kanth, a celebrated former police officer, now social worker, in 'Khaki in Dust Storm', takes us through some significant events that shaped his career as a police officer as well as Indian history through the 1980s and 90s. His narration is filled with a rightful pride at being a police officer and doing the right thing when handed responsibilities, and that pride seeps out of the book and into you as you lose yourself in the author's story set within a chapter of India's story. He takes us through his role in handling the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the 1984 Sikh riots, the bomb blasts throughout the 80s, the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, and his role as the founder of the NGO, Prayas. He describes the vital, monumental incidents in his life as 'dust storms' and proceeds to explain in great detail how he handled them all and how he emerged from them, learning new lessons along the way.
Amod K. Kanth uses a clever way of narrating his story. Early in the book arrives fictional journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, who is on a mission to learn about the man who was at one of the many crucial helms when the situation in India was unstable. She wants to write about his work and throughout the book, the author crafts intelligent questions and provides insightful answers that show us a sneak peek into the mind of a police officer striving to do the right thing. It's one thing to work in a system while recognizing how corrupt it is and how some people are eating away at it from within. It's a wholly different thing to stay true to your morals and values throughout these dust storms.
Plus, he also talks about a number of changes that he wanted to bring as a policeman and his perspective of how policing should be done. He sheds light on issues as seen from the eyes of a policeman trying to bring peace to a situation reeling to go out of hand, and it's a book that you must definitely read if you're looking for a policeman's lens into the events that rattled India in the 80s and the 90s.
I'd recommend reading up, even if it is in short, on the events that the author talks about to get a basic idea, and then reading this book. It will have a greater impact that way.
Amod K. Kanth, a celebrated former police officer, now social worker, in 'Khaki in Dust Storm', takes us through some significant events that shaped his career as a police officer as well as Indian history through the 1980s and 90s. His narration is filled with a rightful pride at being a police officer and doing the right thing when handed responsibilities, and that pride seeps out of the book and into you as you lose yourself in the author's story set within a chapter of India's story. He takes us through his role in handling the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the 1984 Sikh riots, the bomb blasts throughout the 80s, the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, and his role as the founder of the NGO, Prayas. He describes the vital, monumental incidents in his life as 'dust storms' and proceeds to explain in great detail how he handled them all and how he emerged from them, learning new lessons along the way.
Amod K. Kanth uses a clever way of narrating his story. Early in the book arrives fictional journalist Aradhna Hurpikar, who is on a mission to learn about the man who was at one of the many crucial helms when the situation in India was unstable. She wants to write about his work and throughout the book, the author crafts intelligent questions and provides insightful answers that show us a sneak peek into the mind of a police officer striving to do the right thing. It's one thing to work in a system while recognizing how corrupt it is and how some people are eating away at it from within. It's a wholly different thing to stay true to your morals and values throughout these dust storms.
Plus, he also talks about a number of changes that he wanted to bring as a policeman and his perspective of how policing should be done. He sheds light on issues as seen from the eyes of a policeman trying to bring peace to a situation reeling to go out of hand, and it's a book that you must definitely read if you're looking for a policeman's lens into the events that rattled India in the 80s and the 90s.
I'd recommend reading up, even if it is in short, on the events that the author talks about to get a basic idea, and then reading this book. It will have a greater impact that way.
December 24, 2024
Khaki in dust storm, and that storm brought dust from all corners of the world and settled in the uniform of that man who adorned it through thick and thin. And after his superannuation, that police officer decided to share the importance of that dust, which he carried with him throughout his life. A one-time read book.
Too much water has flowed through the river Ganges. But, even after that, a few legacies of the British Raj still remain evergreen to date in India. And one of those legacies is the institution of the police force. In the mid-19th century, the British created it with the sole aim of oppressing the natives. In fact, that's how imperialism worked. Suppression and oppression of the voices of freedom at any cost.
Although, after the Indian independence, a few minute changes were made to the institution of police. But they were in name only. Even today, the image of police in India is not that good. Because the image of the baton and its use brings terror to the mind of the common people of India.
However, the same baton protects people as the first line of defense during any chaos or any unforeseen circumstances. And the author of the book also shared those experiences of his, which he saw and handled as a senior police officer. And the drawbacks of the institution that he served faithfully and how one can bring good changes to it for society.
What is Khaki in Dust Storm by Amod K. Kanth?
Khaki in Dust Storm, Police Diaries Book 1, communal colors and political assassinations (1980-1991), is the experience of an IPS (Indian Police Services) officer who has handled some of the high-profile cases of Indian police history and saw the horrific Anti-Sikh riots of 1984 and their effects afterwards.
In fact, the main USP of this book is that Mr. Kamath was one of the senior police personnel in New Delhi during the Delhi riots of 1984, and he also handled the case of Rajiv Gandhi's assassination and caught several dreaded terrorists.
However, for a layman, this book is not going to help much, especially those people who are not aware of Operation Bluestar and its horrible repercussions afterwards. That's why I recommend to those readers who are not aware of the history of the two most tumultuous decades (1980-1991) of Indian history that they should read about it first. Then, you can go for this book. Otherwise you will get confused.
Too much water has flowed through the river Ganges. But, even after that, a few legacies of the British Raj still remain evergreen to date in India. And one of those legacies is the institution of the police force. In the mid-19th century, the British created it with the sole aim of oppressing the natives. In fact, that's how imperialism worked. Suppression and oppression of the voices of freedom at any cost.
Although, after the Indian independence, a few minute changes were made to the institution of police. But they were in name only. Even today, the image of police in India is not that good. Because the image of the baton and its use brings terror to the mind of the common people of India.
However, the same baton protects people as the first line of defense during any chaos or any unforeseen circumstances. And the author of the book also shared those experiences of his, which he saw and handled as a senior police officer. And the drawbacks of the institution that he served faithfully and how one can bring good changes to it for society.
What is Khaki in Dust Storm by Amod K. Kanth?
Khaki in Dust Storm, Police Diaries Book 1, communal colors and political assassinations (1980-1991), is the experience of an IPS (Indian Police Services) officer who has handled some of the high-profile cases of Indian police history and saw the horrific Anti-Sikh riots of 1984 and their effects afterwards.
In fact, the main USP of this book is that Mr. Kamath was one of the senior police personnel in New Delhi during the Delhi riots of 1984, and he also handled the case of Rajiv Gandhi's assassination and caught several dreaded terrorists.
However, for a layman, this book is not going to help much, especially those people who are not aware of Operation Bluestar and its horrible repercussions afterwards. That's why I recommend to those readers who are not aware of the history of the two most tumultuous decades (1980-1991) of Indian history that they should read about it first. Then, you can go for this book. Otherwise you will get confused.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 23 reviews