James P. Lucier

In the following viewpoint, James P. Lucier argues that India has a deserved reputation as a country that mistreats both neighboring nations and ethnic and religious minority groups within its borders. Among the groups oppressed by India’s Hindu majority are Muslims and Christians throughout India, ethnic Tamils in southern India, Sikhs in India’s Punjab province, and the people of Kashmir. Lucier suggests that the ultimate solution to minority mistreatment may lie in the breakup of India into four or five separate countries. He is a contributing editor for Insight on the News, a weekly newsmagazine.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What paradox does India present, according to Lucier?
2. How many states and languages exist within India, as stated by the author?
3. What price has...