[Extract from Mr M R Masani Speech in Lok Sabha]

Summary

This five-page compilation presents M. R. Masani’s statements on democratic opposition politics in India between July 1970 and March 1971. In his Lok Sabha speech on the no-confidence motion, Masani distinguishes constitutional changes of government from what he calls the undemocratic practice of “toppling” governments. He argues that opposition parties should seek a popular mandate and establish a credible alternative government before removing the incumbent, rather than merely producing parliamentary instability.

Key points

• Masani distinguishes democratic changes of government from parliamentary “toppling.”
• He argues that opposition parties must offer a better government and an identifiable alternative before removing the incumbent.
• The Swatantra Party’s November 1970 resolution calls for a bloc of nationalist and democratic parties in Parliament.
• The January 1971 statements advocate a full-fledged electoral alliance, a common programme, and one agreed candidate in each constituency.
• The January resolution accepts joining a Democratic Front after assurances that Communist parties would not participate.
• After the March 1971 election, Masani accepts the electorate’s verdict and says the party must determine its role as an opposition party.