Top 18 Election Related Books You Need to Read

World Book Day is not just about celebrating books and reading but also about highlighting the importance of knowledge and how it can impact our daily lives. With the upcoming 2023 karnataka legislative assembly election [KYW], it becomes even more critical to equip ourselves with election-related knowledge and understand the significance of being a voter. In this blog, we will discuss 18 election-based books that can help you gain insights into the Indian election system and prepare you to make an informed decision when casting your vote. 

  1. Belief in the Ballot: 101 Human Stories from Indian Elections by Election Commission of India: Belief in the Ballot provides a comprehensive overview of the election process in India, including the history of the commission and the electoral system. It also emphasizes the importance of each vote and how it can make a difference through incredible election stories. 
  2. The Verdict by Prannoy Roy: The book is an analysis of the Indian general election of 2014. It examines the factors that led to the BJP’s victory and the impact it had on Indian politics. The book provides a fascinating account of the election and the political landscape of India. 
  3. Elections in India – Everything you need to know by Robin Age: It is a must-read for anyone interested in the Indian election process [KYW],.  The book covers everything from the history & evolution of elections in India to the electoral system, political parties, and voting behavior. It also includes information on the role of the Election Commission and the significance of each vote. 
  4. How To Win an Election in India by Shivam Shankar Singh: This book is a practical guide for politicians and political strategists. It provides  invaluable  insights into the tactics and strategies used in Indian elections,  inner workings of politics, political parties  and offers tips on how to win an election. 
  5. Modi Effect by Lance Price: The book is a critical analysis of the impact of Narendra Modi’s leadership on Indian politics. The book explores the reasons behind Modi’s rise to power and the impact it has had on Indian democracy. It also examines the policies and initiatives introduced by the Modi government. 
  6. How India Votes by Pradeep Gupta: A comprehensive study of Indian elections, the book covers various aspects of the election process, [KYW],.   including the role of media, political parties, and election campaigns. It also provides insights into voting behavior and the factors that influence voters. 
  7. Every Vote Counts by Naveen Chawla: A great memoir by the former Chief Election Commissioner of India who provides an insider’s account of the Indian election process and highlights the importance of each vote. 
  8. When India Votes by Dr Samir Kapur & Jaishri Jethwaney: When India Votes is an account of the Indian general elections of 2014. The book provides a detailed analysis of the campaign and political leadership qualities, KYW.    the issues, and the outcomes of the election and how electioneering in India has been reimagined by the ability of mass communication through rallies and public events, supported by the strength of event-driven media channels. 
  9. The Undocumented Wonder by S. Y. Quraishy: The Undocumented Wonder by S.Y. Quraishi is a memoir by the former Chief Election Commissioner of India. The book provides a detailed account of Quraishi’s career in the Indian civil service, including his role in conducting free and fair elections in India. 
  10. Singhal’s Law of Elections in India – Manav Malhotra: Singhal’s Law of Elections in India by Manav Malhotra is a legal guide to Indian elections. It provides an in-depth analysis of the legal framework governing Indian elections process [KYW] and covers everything from the electoral system to the role of the Election Commission.
  11. Why India Votes by Mukulika Banerjee: This book explores the complex nature of Indian democracy and how voting is an important aspect of it. Banerjee delves into the psychology of Indian voters, analyzing why they vote the way they do and what factors influence their decisions. 
  12. Uttar Pradesh Elections 2022: More than a State at Stake by Anil Maheshwari: As the most populous state in India, Uttar Pradesh holds significant sway in national elections. This book examines the then upcoming 2022 elections in Uttar Pradesh and how they could impact the country as a whole. 
  13. How BJP Wins by Prashant Jha: This book provides an in-depth analysis of the strategies and tactics used by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to win elections in India. Jha examines the party’s approach to campaigning, its use of technology, and the role of charismatic leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
  14. Election in India – Nehru to Vajpayee by R. C. Vashishtha: This book provides a historical perspective on Indian elections, focusing on the period from India’s independence in 1947 to the end of the 20th century. Vashishtha examines the evolution of India’s electoral system and how it has impacted the country’s political landscape. 
  15. Your Vote is Not Enough by Rajendra Pratap Gupta: This book emphasizes the importance of civic engagement [KYW] beyond just voting. Gupta argues that citizens must be more active in holding their elected officials accountable and pushing for meaningful change in their communities. 
  16. Electoral Politics and General Elections in India – 1952 to 1998 by M. L. Ahuja: This book is a comprehensive overview of India’s electoral system and the general elections held in the country from 1952 to 1998. Ahuja examines the political parties, their ideologies, and the key issues that shaped each election.
  17. Election in India: Issues and Challenges by Anurag Chaudhary: This book analyzes the challenges facing India’s electoral system, including voter turnout, corruption, and the role of money in politics. Chaudhary provides suggestions for how to address these issues and strengthen Indian democracy. 
  18. Communities as Vote Bank: Elections in India by Zaheer Ali: This book explores the role of identity politics in Indian elections, focusing on how political parties appeal to specific religious, linguistic, and caste groups to secure votes. Ali argues that this approach has significant implications for Indian democracy and social cohesion.

As the upcoming 2023 karnataka legislative assembly election [KYW] draw closer, it is important that we take our responsibility as voters seriously and make informed choices that will shape the future of our state and our country. And what’s better than to start with these inspirational books! Let’s broaden our perspectives, and make our votes count!