[Letter to Piloo Mody]

Summary

In this letter dated 11 July 1968, M. R. Masani writes to Piloo Mody to correct what he considers a misunderstanding about his intentions. Masani denies proposing “brain-storming sessions” with party workers throughout the country, explaining instead that he wants, when opportunities arise, to persuade rank-and-file members toward his views on organisational methods in a normal and informal way.

Using a recent meeting in Lucknow as an example, Masani says he responded to questions about the Madras meeting by telling party workers that responsibility lay with them: “the ball was in their court and it was for them to assert themselves.” He closes by inviting Mody to suggest something concrete that he should consider doing.

Key points

• Masani thanks Piloo Mody for his letter of 8 July 1968.
• He denies intending to organise nationwide brainstorming sessions with party workers.
• He distinguishes between formal sessions and informal efforts to influence party members when opportunities arise.
• He refers to his remarks concerning the Madras meeting and organisational methods.
• He recounts telling workers at a Lucknow meeting that they themselves needed to take initiative.
• He remains open to concrete suggestions from Mody.