[Letter to Mr V S Srikumar]

Summary

This two-page letter, dated 7 June 1975 and signed by Girish Munshi as Joint Secretary of the All-India Swatantra Party, responds to V. S. Srikumar about an affidavit before the Election Commission concerning the party and its affairs. Munshi explains the delay in replying, says the party’s advocate should already have addressed the allegations, and discusses correspondence circulated among party colleagues.

The letter then turns to the party’s political strategy. Munshi urges dialogue with Kamaraj, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and other Jana Sangh and Congress (O) leaders; expresses concern that the party has not seriously prepared for the coming general elections or fundraising; and considers possible electoral alignments in Gujarat. He proposes developing a minimum programme, studying other parties’ programmes, and beginning negotiations with parties for an eventual coming together.

Key points

• Munshi acknowledges receiving Srikumar’s 26 April letter only after returning from Matheran on 3 June.
• He discusses an affidavit by Ganesan before the Election Commission concerning the Swatantra Party and its affairs.
• He reports on party circulars, executive-meeting minutes, and correspondence among political colleagues.
• He urges negotiations with Kamaraj, Vajpayee, Jana Sangh leaders, Congress (O), and other groups.
• He warns that the party has not given sufficient thought to the funds required for forthcoming general elections.
• He discusses likely electoral strength and coalition possibilities in Gujarat, including the possible influence of Chimanbhai Patel.
• He proposes preparing a minimum programme before entering meaningful negotiations with other parties.