Letter to Mr Minoo Masani

Summary

This two-page letter, dated 15 June 1963 and signed by A. P. Jain from the Swatantra Party Parliamentary Office, urges Minoo Masani to respond politically to China’s establishment of 26 civilian posts along the demilitarised zone and the Sino-Indian frontier. Jain argues that the move violates the terms of the cease-fire arrangement, conflicts with the Colombo recommendations, and may challenge India’s claim to the McMahon Line, particularly if similar posts have been established in NEFA. He interprets China’s actions as an attempt to remind India that negotiation is the alternative to another military conflict for which, in his view, India is unprepared because of its policy of non-alignment.

The second page focuses on the Indian government’s indirect public response. Jain questions why the Prime Minister did not clearly inform the public and Parliament about the reported Chinese troop concentration and the new posts, and criticises what he calls a policy of delay toward Peking. He asks whether the Swatantra Party can move a no-confidence motion or otherwise bring the matter before Parliament, noting that he has already tabled three questions and awaits guidance so that he can act on the party’s behalf.

Key points

• Jain objects to China’s establishment of 26 civilian posts along the demilitarised zone and Sino-Indian frontier.
• He argues that the Chinese action violates the cease-fire arrangement and conflicts with the Colombo recommendations.
• The letter raises the possibility that similar posts in NEFA would challenge India’s claim up to the McMahon Line.
• Jain interprets China’s policy as pressure on India to negotiate rather than risk another military conflict.
• He questions the government’s indirect handling of reports concerning Chinese troops and frontier posts.
• He seeks Masani’s advice on a no-confidence motion or another parliamentary initiative by the Swatantra Party.
• Jain reports that he has already tabled three questions on the subject but is unsure whether they will be admitted.