[Letter from Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this letter dated 23 May 1972, M. R. Masani responds to Mr. R. N. Rustonji’s concern about India’s deteriorating political situation. Masani rejects the suggestion that he has become silent or passive since the 1971 parliamentary election, explaining that he retired from the presidency of the Swatantra Party for reasons he says subsequent developments have vindicated. He presents himself as continuing to promote liberal principles and basic civic education.

Key points

• Masani acknowledges concern about the state of affairs in India and the country’s movement toward disaster.
• He disputes the claim that he has been silent or passive since the 1971 parliamentary election.
• He says his retirement from the presidency of the Swatantra Party had sound reasons, later supported by political developments.
• He describes his continuing work in promoting liberal principles and basic civic education.
• He identifies himself as Honorary Secretary of the Leslie Sawhny Programme of Training for Democracy.
• He notes that since January he has edited Freedom First and invites Rustonji to subscribe.
• He describes himself as a founder and promoter of the Indian Liberal Group and offers to meet after Rustonji reviews the enclosed materials.