[Letter to Mr Minoo Masani]

Summary

In this two-page handwritten letter dated 10 July 1974, Sumatilal P. Shah writes to M. R. Masani about the proposed dissolution of the Swatantra Party. Referring to letters exchanged between Masani and Piloo Mody, Shah argues that the planned National Convention on 4–5 August should be cancelled. He says the convention was proposed when the situation was unclear, but that the party’s present circumstances make dissolution impossible and expose the risk of damaging its future.

Key points

• Shah responds favorably to Masani’s letter to Piloo Mody and refers to his own earlier correspondence with Mody.
• He opposes holding the Swatantra Party National Convention scheduled for 4–5 August 1974.
• He reports strong opposition to dissolution among state units and many members of the National Executive.
• He argues that some leaders and members may leave to join the proposed new party, but that this does not justify changing the Swatantra Party’s nature.
• He recommends postponing any convention until after those who intend to leave have exited the party.
• He suggests that the party should later reconsider its strategy, with greater emphasis on educating the public and less emphasis on contesting elections.