[Letter to Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this letter dated 12 April 1968, C. Rajagopalachari responds to Minoo Masani’s letter of 10 April concerning Masani’s apparent intention to resign. Rajagopalachari acknowledges their shared opposition to dishonesty but urges Masani not to adopt an inflexible position, warning that his departure could create a widespread sense of disruption within the Swatantra Party.

The letter sets individual freedom against party discipline in the management of a political organisation devoted to Swatantra. Rajagopalachari says that he values freedom more highly than organisational discipline, while also stressing Masani’s importance to the party and the consequences of his resignation. The document is a single-page personal letter and does not identify the precise dispute that prompted Masani’s resignation.

Key points

• Rajagopalachari is replying to a letter from Minoo Masani dated 10 April.
• He recognises and shares Masani’s strong opposition to dishonesty.
• He cautions Masani against taking an excessively rigid position.
• The letter explicitly prioritises freedom over discipline in managing a political party.
• Rajagopalachari is concerned that Masani’s resignation would produce organisational disruption.
• Masani is described as having contributed substantially to the party and as unable to withdraw without broader consequences.
• The letter refers to the Swatantra Party but does not explain the underlying controversy.