Contents: 1. Introducing the problem. 2. From "Bhakti" to "Shakti" (formation and politicization of a minority community : from Guru Nanak to Akali movement). 3. Complexities of the question of Sikh nationality. 4. Militancy, terrorism and state terrorism. 5. Through the prism of field study. 6. For conclusion (Khalistan: myth or reality?). Appendices: 1. Constitution of Shiromani Akali Dal (translated from Punjabi). 2. Anandpur Sahib resolution (s). 3. Federal polity. 4. Dharam Yudh. 5. Two letters to the president of India. 6. The Punjab massacres. 7. Truth about the Punjab tragedy. 8. Gurmata (translated from Punjabi). 9. Document of declaration of Khalistan (translated from Punjabi). 10. Programme for the liberation of the Punjabi nationality. 11. Directives about Punjabi language (translated from Punjabi). 12. Commandments about school uniform and prayer (translated from Punjabi). 13. Sikh grievances & demands. 14. Darshan Singh Pheruman: the first Martyr of Sikh homeland. 15. Punjab crisis in perspective. 16. An open letter to the world Sikh convention by Dal Khalsa. 17. Text of Sukha-Jinda letter to the president. 18. Constitution of Khalistan (translated from Punjabi).

"This book is about the history and politics of the demand for a homeland by a minority community. It encompasses into its gamut the formation and politicization of Sikh community and its demand for a separate homeland both in pre-partition and post-partition India. A sincere attempt has been made to discuss various aspects of this demand. Many formulations may appear to be controversial but the main purpose is to generate a constructive debate around the central issue. Since it is the first book on this complex and sensitive theme, it is expected that the readers will like it for fresh insights and the new approach adopted for the present study." (jacket)

[Gopal Singh is Chairman, Department of Political Science, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla. He also edited Punjab : Past, Present and Future and Punjab Today.]