[Letter to C Rajagopalachari]

Summary

In this confidential letter dated May 29, 1970, Minoo Masani reports to C. Rajagopalachari (“Rajaji”) on discussions among Morarji Desai, Ram Subhag Singh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Madhok concerning a joint opposition response. Masani describes a proposed draft statement for the forthcoming AICC meeting and hopes that agreement between the Jan Sangh and other opposition forces might lead to a united parliamentary group with one leader, two deputy leaders, and a common discipline.

Key points

• Masani reports on a Delhi meeting involving Morarji Desai, Ram Subhag Singh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Madhok.
• He has been entrusted with preparing a draft statement that might issue from the AICC meeting at the end of June.
• The proposed project seeks a coordinated response between the Jan Sangh and other opposition parties.
• Masani imagines a united parliamentary group with one leader, two deputy leaders, and common discipline.
• He identifies opposition from Gujarat members as the principal obstacle to success.
• He asks Rajagopalachari to consider the draft before a forthcoming meeting in Madras.
• He also requests that Dr. Cooper report on Rajagopalachari’s discussion with Morarjibhai.