Today's Read Contributor Rollo Romig’s I Am on the Hit List takes an incisive look at the tragic assassination of Indian journalist Gauri Lankesh in 2017, offering a gripping exploration of the broader political context in India and the growing rise of authoritarianism. Through a meticulous investigation, Romig sheds light on not only the murder itself but also the dangerous environment in which journalists are increasingly becoming targets of violence.
Lankesh was a prominent journalist and vocal critic of Hindu nationalist politics. Her assassination was not just a personal tragedy but a symbolic attack on press freedom in India, a country where dissent is becoming an increasingly perilous act. Romig’s work goes beyond mere recounting of events, providing readers with a complex portrait of India’s political landscape and the forces at play behind Lankesh’s murder. His investigation dives into the political climate, the people involved, and the chilling implications of silencing journalists who challenge the status quo.
The book delves into the rise of authoritarianism in India, a key theme that has fueled political division and a growing sense of fear among those who speak out against the government or dominant ideologies. By examining Lankesh’s work, Romig demonstrates the significance of her journalistic voice and the growing threats to free speech in a society that is witnessing increasing polarization. Romig’s thorough research paints a vivid picture of how the political landscape in India has shifted, providing insight into the systemic factors that led to Lankesh’s tragic end.
Romig does not shy away from revealing the harsh realities faced by those in the journalistic profession, highlighting the risks that many reporters take in pursuit of truth. His detailed investigation uncovers how Lankesh’s criticism of the ruling political party and her advocacy for secularism made her a target for far-right groups. Romig’s reporting raises crucial questions about the safety of journalists and the extent to which the Indian state has failed to protect its press.
In addition to its focus on Lankesh’s death, the book is also a commentary on the erosion of democratic norms and civil liberties in India. It serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of press freedom in the face of rising authoritarianism. Romig’s ability to intertwine investigative journalism with a broader analysis of political trends makes I Am on the Hit List an essential read for those seeking to understand the complexities of contemporary India.
Romig’s meticulous and compassionate approach has earned I Am on the Hit List widespread acclaim, culminating in its nomination as a 2025 Pulitzer Prize finalist for General Nonfiction. His work is an important contribution to both the conversation on press freedom and the ongoing struggles against political oppression globally.
