‘Never before in India's political history has such value been placed on the functioning of institutions that regulate, shape and monitor democratic processes. This excellent work is an exceptionally timely and valuable contribution to the study of democratic institutions and their significance. Institutions are vital and central to the functioning of democracy. Taking her cue from theories of new institutionalism' that focus on how institutions shape political processes, and to a certain extent how they are impacted by political processes, Manjari Katju has competently and compellingly drawn our attention to this aspect of democracy. This book will help us understand not only the institutional meltdown in our country but also what the implications of this meltdown are. Manjari is to be congratulated.' Neera Chandhoke, Former Professor of Political Science, University of Delhi