Ranjan Roy
Fractured States is not only a story of a near-future alternate India but also a narrative of remembrance. It explores the aftermath of Partition, the Naxalite Movement, the rise and fall of communism in Bengal, and, above all, relationships between people, entities, and institutions and between space and time.
Fractured States is an alternate dystopian science fiction novel—perfect for fans of 1984, Brave New World, and The Handmaid’s Tale. In this alternate India of tomorrow, extremist majoritarian politics have morphed into a fully institutionalised regime. Tarini Master, a retired schoolteacher, finds himself trapped in Kafkaesque Foreigner Tribunals and relentless state surveillance. He must reclaim his identity in a world that has declared him nonexistent. Extended Synopsis Set against the backdrop of the Assam NRC crisis, this novel marries real‐world tragedy with high‐concept science fiction. In an alternate near-future, digital “existence certificates” can be revoked at any moment. Tarini’s struggle becomes emblematic of every displaced soul. Meanwhile, a rising student movement—and the haunting chants of Bengali Bhodrolok protesters—hint at revolution. Subtly, the narrative explores how technology and ideology can conspire to erase lives. Key Themes & Takeaways Alternate Totalitarian Control – From data-mining drones to biometric “truth scanners,” power is absolute and unyielding. Human Resilience – Despite digital erasure, hope endures in clandestine book clubs and underground art collectives. Cultural Fusion – Blends Bengali Bhodrolok traditions with futuristic speculation to ground the science fiction in real heritage. Identity & Belonging – Explores how citizenship becomes currency in a world built on exclusion. Learn about the Assam NRC crisis What is Kafkaesque bureaucracy? Check out our other Science Fiction Books
