State, Space and Political Subjects.

This paper analyses the context in which Special Economic Zones are promoted as an important route to economic growth and development in India. The process for the approval of these Special Economic Zones has been expedited by various provincial governments after a hasty policy and legislative decision undertaken by the central government with severe re-percussions on the lives and livelihoods of the affected people. The paper examines the basic features of the Special Economic Zone Act, the role of the government and corporate houses, and also the protest movement by political subjects against the legislative and executive initiatives under-taken by the state and its agencies. Drawing from testimonies of people, the paper examines the processes whereby state sponsored 'exceptional-ity' is being challenged through collective initiatives by political subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]