Becoming an ‘In/Outsider’ in an ‘Unhomely’ World: A Reading of Siddhartha Deb’s The Point of Return

Abstract

Aims: The paper entitled “Becoming an ‘In-Outsider’ in an ‘Unhomely’ World: A Reading of Siddhartha Deb’s The Point of Return” deals with the complexities of ethnic violence in Meghalaya post-independent India. The plight of the Bengalis who fled their previous homeland and settled in the new country is addressed. Even though they became citizens of the new Indian nation, they struggled to belong to their place of settlement.

Methodology and Approaches: The research methodology for this analysis is qualitative and based on textual examination of primary and secondary sources. It takes both the subjective approach as well as objective historical sources to interpret the text in the context of the spatio-temporal setting of events and places.

Outcome: There have been attempts to deconstruct binaries in postcolonial studies. Drawing from these postcolonial theorists, the paper attempts to deconstruct the insider-outsider dichotomy prevalent within India’s Northeast, particularly in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Instead of overtly demonstrating the fluidity of identities or essentialising a cosmopolitan outlook, the narrative situates itself within while at the same time deconstructing the binary of who belongs and who does not.

Conclusion and Suggestions: The conundrum on the question of who is the real insider/outsider remains complex. In such a scenario, those migrants or refugees who find themselves belonging “neither here nor there,” find themselves occupying a “third space.” Their voices need to be heard and there is a need to be more open-minded so that a more inclusive society can be built.