[Letter from Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this letter dated 31 October 1963, M. R. Masani reports that arrangements for a proposed national convention have stalled. Rajasthan has declined to host it, and Bangalore has not responded positively despite persuasion. Masani therefore suggests postponing the convention from the first half of December to late January 1964, arguing that the delay may allow the organisers to revise their programme and formulate a policy suited to circumstances after the Chinese invasion, the Kamaraj Plan, and its sequels.

Key points

• Masani says no progress has been made in securing a venue for the proposed national convention.
• He proposes moving the convention from December 1963 to late January 1964.
• The postponement is presented as an opportunity to reassess policy after major political changes.
• A new membership-enrolment system cannot be implemented as planned from 1 January 1964.
• Delegates would be selected on the basis of 1963 membership, with quotas determined by the Central Organising Committee.
• Masani rejects Bangalore’s proposed financial contribution of Rs. 25,000 as inadequate and estimates that at least Rs. 50,000 would be required.
• He asks whether Madras City or Coimbatore could host the convention, with assistance from Sadashivam and G. K. Sundaram.