[Letter to Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this two-page letter dated 28 June 1968, N. G. Ranga writes to Minoo Masani about proposals to form a Democratic Front comprising non-Communist and non-Congress parties. Ranga reports that N. Dandekar has discussed the idea with Charan Singh and the B.K.D. secretary, and that a new party formed through the merger of non-Communist, non-Congress and non-Jan Sangh parties has been proposed. He questions whether the formula should exclude the Jan Sangh and warns against a rushed process that could leave no final agreement.

Key points

• Ranga supports discussion of a Democratic Front bringing together non-Communist and non-Congress parties.
• He describes a proposed merger involving non-Communist, non-Congress and non-Jan Sangh parties.
• The letter notes that the Jan Sangh is unwilling to merge but may cooperate with the B.K.D. and Ranga’s group.
• Ranga says the B.K.D. needs funds for mid-term elections in Uttar Pradesh and a possible liability in Bihar.
• He argues that Bhanu Pratap Singh lacks confidence to face the Uttar Pradesh election without an effective agreement with the B.K.D.
• He identifies Maha Maya Prasad as another Bihar leader seeking funds and allies, but says his organisation lacks effectiveness.
• Ranga asks Masani to discuss the matter with Dandekar and provide advice.