ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes two significant social movements in India: of Shaheen Bagh women against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) (2019–20) and farmers’ opposition to laws which render them more vulnerable to corporate exploitation (2020–present). It examines four ways they have challenged autocratization. First, the Muslims who led anti-CAA protests and Punjabi Sikhs who spearheaded the farmers’ protest, refuted allegations that as religious minorities, they were anti-national, and proudly affirmed both their faith and their secular commitments. Second, activists challenged the regime’s hierarchical, secretive character by forging egalitarian, inclusive, communities. Third, women challenged the autocratic government’s claims to represent and protect women. Fourth, both movements opposed the erosion of democratic, constitutional principles.
