[Letter to Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this private letter dated 13 April 1970, C. Rajagopalachari tells Minoo Masani that he has followed reports of a National Executive meeting and the expulsion of C. C. Desai. Rajagopalachari clarifies that Dr. Bande and Sri Mariswami both voted for the expulsion resolution, contrary to newspaper reports about Mariswami’s vote.

Rajagopalachari then suggests asking Morarji Desai to visit Gujarat to steady public opinion and prevent Gujarat residents from being influenced by C. C. Desai or Barla. The letter reflects internal party tensions, disputed reporting, and an attempt to manage the political consequences of an expulsion.

Key points

• Rajagopalachari writes privately to Minoo Masani on 13 April 1970.
• He discusses the National Executive’s meeting and the expulsion of C. C. Desai.
• He corrects newspaper reports concerning Sri Mariswami’s vote.
• He states that Dr. Bande and Sri Mariswami voted for the expulsion resolution.
• He proposes that Morarji Desai visit Gujarat to steady local opinion.
• He fears that C. C. Desai or Barla may influence Gujarat residents against the National Executive’s position.