[Letter to C Rajagopalachari]

Summary

In this letter dated 8 April 1964, M. R. Masani writes to C. Rajagopalachari (“Rajaji”) about Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s statement proposing talks with Sheikh Abdullah. Masani regards Bhutto’s initiative as constructive and urges Rajagopalachari to welcome it publicly. He highlights Abdullah’s claim that he is the only leader acceptable to Kashmiris on both sides of the cease-fire line and that he could settle the Kashmir issue through consultation with Indian and Pakistani leaders.

Key points

• The letter is dated 8 April 1964 and is addressed to C. Rajagopalachari.
• Masani reports that Bhutto has made a constructive statement inviting talks with Abdullah.
• Masani recommends welcoming Bhutto’s statement.
• The letter draws attention to Abdullah’s acceptability among Kashmiris on both sides of the cease-fire line.
• Masani presents consultation between Indian and Pakistani leaders as a possible means of addressing the Kashmir issue.