This study examines how government policies shape civil violence by analyzing India's 1950-56 federal reorganization. During this period, as language groups pushed for statehood,
Data & Methods: Comparative Analysis of Language Groups
We tracked the peaceful or violent nature of each group's struggle based on their political standing relative to other interests.
Key Findings: Advantage Matters in Violence Risk
Groups with representation in the ruling party were peacefully accommodated. Those facing strong opposition from similarly positioned groups became more likely to resort to violence. Very disadvantaged groups anticipated repression and held back.
The research shows government actions condition, rather than simply cause, civil conflict.
