[Letter to C Rajagopalachari]

Summary

In this typed letter dated 29 May 1968, M. R. Masani sends C. Rajagopalachari reports from the Gujarat press and describes what he calls a regular smear campaign. Masani distinguishes the campaign from the views of most Gujarat members, attributing it instead to a clique at the top.

Masani presents the situation as an early consequence of a policy of appeasement by the Centre, followed by weak leadership. He urges that the trend be stopped, warning that it may spread as far as the episode involving Ramgarh. The letter is marked “Express delivery” and includes two enclosures, but the enclosures are not present in the rendered page.

Key points

• Masani forwards reports originating in the Gujarat press to C. Rajagopalachari.
• He characterizes the reports as part of a regular smear campaign.
• He argues that the campaign reflects a clique at the top rather than the majority view of Gujarat members.
• He links the campaign to what he calls appeasement and weak leadership at the Centre.
• He warns that, unless checked, the trend could spread as far as the episode involving Ramgarh.
• The letter is dated 29 May 1968, marked “Express delivery,” and notes two enclosures that are not included on the visible page.