Sectarianism in Class, Caste, and Corruption: A Critical Study of Aravind Adiga's Between the Assassinations

Abstract: Between the Assassinations (2008) by Aravind Adiga is a scorching exploration of sectarianism and class, caste, and corruption in Indian life. Set between the assassinations of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, the novel traces the journey of disillusionment to hope within the context of societal breakdown. It graphically depicts the impact of caste discrimination, religious violence, and economic insecurity on people and society, and sectarianism has added to the woes of marginalized individuals. This thematic analysis symbolizes how Adiga’s novel catapults endemic corruption, social injustice, and moral breakdown into the forefront, where the spotlight is on people’s issues towards extracting dignity and justice amidst society's polarization. It is from these confrontations that this book is able to appreciate Adiga's criticism of India today.