[Swatantra to Function As Before-Times Of India]

Summary

This two-page institutional document records the Maharashtra State Council of the Swatantra Party’s opposition to dissolving the party as part of a proposed merger with six other parties. The resolution, adopted in Bombay on 6 July 1974, argues that the Swatantra Party’s principles and policies remain valid and that a new coalition based on a vague general programme would not provide a genuine national alternative. It also warns that the continued existence of both the Congress and the Jana Sangh would undermine the prospect of a competitive two-party system.

Key points

• The Maharashtra State Council rejects the proposal to dissolve the Swatantra Party.
• It maintains that the party’s principles and policies remain valid.
• The resolution doubts that a new party formed from seven existing parties would produce a coherent national alternative.
• It argues that the continued separate existence of Congress and Jana Sangh would frustrate the development of a two-party system.
• The Council requests another General Council meeting before the dissolution proposal reaches the National Convention.
• If dissolution is approved nationally, the Maharashtra unit says it will retain its identity, message, and flag.
• An attached Times of India clipping reports that the Swatantra Party would continue to function and names its Maharashtra office-bearers and organisational plans.