[Letter to N Dandeker]

Summary

In this letter dated 26 June 1968, Bhanu Pratap Singh replies to N. Dandekar about the proposed merger of the Swatantra Party and the group associated with Chaudhary Charan Singh. He acknowledges Dandekar’s advice on the choice of constitutions and candidates, while asking to retain the freedom to visit western Uttar Pradesh districts before making commitments. He is particularly concerned that the merger proposal has not received fair consideration and argues that the apparent disagreement concerns labels rather than fundamental principles.

Key points

• Bhanu Pratap Singh discusses the proposed merger between the Swatantra Party and Charan Singh’s group.
• He says constitutional and candidate-selection questions should follow a general rule, with exceptions discussed in advance.
• He asks not to be prevented from visiting western Uttar Pradesh districts before the merger process advances.
• He argues that there is no substantive difference between the parties on fundamental principles.
• He distinguishes the broad term “Socialism” from Marxism and says the Swatantra Party need not antagonise people who call themselves Gandhian Socialists.
• He invokes trusteeship and Gandhi’s teachings as principles compatible with the party’s stated position.
• He asks Dandekar to reconsider his position and allow the National Executive to consider Charan Singh’s merger proposal.