Military and Democracy in Nepal

by Indra Adhikari

Overview

This book explores the development of the military as an organization and looks at the patterns of civil–military relations that have emerged in modern Nepal, especially after the rise of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who founded the unified state of Nepal. It combines astute analyses with up-to-date data to present a comprehensive account of the relations between monarchy, military and civil government and their impact on the democratization process in the country.

The author underlines the pressing need for establishing civilian supremacy over the military, through developing and strengthening civilian supervisory mechanisms. The book will be an important resource to researchers, scholars, students of politics, military studies, peace and conflict studies, and history, particularly those concerned with Nepal. It will also interest policy-makers, security experts and military personnel.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781317589051
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	06/12/2015
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	382
File size:	4 MB

About the Author

Indra Adhikari is Research Associate, Nepal Centre for Contemporary Studies, Kathmandu.

Table of Contents

Preface. 1. Introduction 2. Civil–Military Relations and Democratization 3. Military Recruitment, Development and Trends 4. Military–Democracy Interface (1990–2002) 5. King vs Democracy (2002–06) 6. The Power Shift: Restoration of Democracy and Democratization of Military since 2006 7. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index

Editorial Reviews

Based on research and in-depth study of origin, development and nature of [the] Nepalese army and its role . . . in democratic evolution as well as in its retardation, this work would definitely provide a new perspective on the triangular relationship between monarchy, army and democracy.

-- Lok Raj Baral, Professor and Executive Chairman, Nepal Centre for Contemporary Studies (NCCS); and former Ambassador of Nepal to India

A perceptive, incisive and thorough analysis of the relationship between army, monarchy and elected government, constituting the triumvirate of Nepalese politics. A must-read for a deeper understanding of the evolution of this politics over the last quarter century.

-- Muchkund Dubey, President, Council for Social Development; and former Foreign Secretary, Government of India

...Adhikari's piece is much richer than previous literature in terms of information and analytical balance. She has adequate evidence in the book to establish her arguments. It will prove useful for academic audiences as much as for those who seek in-depth knowledge about the organizational biography of the Nepalese Army. The introductory part consists of a good conceptual discourse and empirical evidence. The details on the evolution, institutional structures, recruitment trends, and orientation of the Nepalese Army are thought provoking. This section also broadens the reader's insight because the author contextualizes the Nepalese case with other South Asian countries. The research process has covered a wide variety of informants, which reflects the author's diligence.

--Safal Ghimire, University of New England, Armidale, Australia, Pacific Affairs

From the Publisher