Resolution for National Convention

Summary

This four-page Swatantra Party document records resolutions adopted at the Seventh National Convention in Delhi on August 4–5, 1974. It describes the party’s earlier efforts to create a two-party system and a “National Alternative” bringing together political parties other than the ruling Congress and the Communist parties. The document presents this proposed alignment as a response to political disorder and confusion, while insisting that any common programme must be sufficiently clear to address the people’s aspirations.

The principal resolution welcomes the impending formation of the Bharatiya Lok Dal and authorises party president Piloo Mody to announce whether the Swatantra Party will dissolve and merge with the new party. It also provides for members who do not wish to join the new organisation to continue non-partisan activities under another name. A separate notice of resolution rejects dissolution, arguing that the Swatantra Party remains the only national party among the seven parties expected to combine and that the proposed new party lacks a sufficiently defined programme. The document therefore preserves the convention’s unresolved debate over merger, party identity, and the prospects for a two-party system.

Key points

• The National Executive reviewed India’s political condition and recommended pursuing a two-party system.
• The Swatantra Party sought cooperation among political parties to establish a National Alternative.
• The General Council approved circulation of a draft programme and deferred the final decision to the National Convention.
• The convention welcomed the proposed formation of the Bharatiya Lok Dal through the amalgamation of parties other than Congress and the Communist parties.
• Piloo Mody was authorised to determine and implement the Swatantra Party’s dissolution or merger arrangements.
• A separate proposed resolution opposed dissolution, defending the Swatantra Party’s national status and distinctive principles.
• The document highlights disagreement over whether a broad opposition alliance could provide a genuinely clear and viable political alternative.