Under the Gun by Niloufer Siddiqui – Political Violence & Voter Behavior in Pakistan

Under the Gun by Niloufer Siddiqui

Under the Gun by Niloufer Siddiqui presents a groundbreaking study on the role of political violence in shaping voter behavior and electoral dynamics in Pakistan. Bridging political science, sociology, and area studies, Siddiqui unpacks how citizens make political choices under the constant threat of violence and coercion, especially in regions dominated by armed political parties and militant influence.

The book explores real-world case studies from Karachi and other urban centers, analyzing how fear, identity, and political messaging affect the democratic process. Siddiqui challenges the assumption that political violence only leads to voter suppression, demonstrating instead how it can create complex affiliations, loyalty to strongmen, and unique local power structures.

By combining field research, interviews, and statistical data, Under the Gun becomes essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the nuances of Pakistan’s democratic challenges. Whether you’re a student, policymaker, or political analyst, this book offers critical insights into electoral behavior and violence in emerging democracies.

✅ Key Features:

1. In-depth study of political violence and its effects on voter behavior

2. Authored by respected political scientist Niloufer Siddiqui

3. Based on extensive fieldwork and qualitative interviews in Pakistan

4. Focuses on urban political landscapes, especially Karachi

5. Examines party politics, voter intimidation, and coercion

6. Challenges traditional theories of electoral participation

7. Blends political theory with real-world Pakistani case studies

8. Highlights the role of armed political actors in elections

9. Discusses how fear shapes political loyalty and civic engagement

10. Offers valuable insights for researchers in political science

11. Explores identity politics and ethnic affiliations

12. Written in accessible language with academic depth

13. Provides a framework for analyzing violence in other democracies

14. Strong relevance for South Asian studies and postcolonial politics

15. Useful for journalists, policymakers, and development professionals

16. Includes empirical data and statistical analysis

17. Engages with global literature on democracy and violence

18. Timely relevance for Pakistan’s electoral and democratic future

19. Published by a reputable academic press

20. A must-read for understanding the fragility of democratic institutions in conflict-prone regions

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