March 26, 1938
(Extract)
Like us the large majority of Hindus and Sikhs in
the State have immensely suffered at the hands of the irresponsible
government. They are also steeped in deep ignorance, have to pay
large taxes and are in debt and starving. Establishment of
responsible government is as much necessity for them as for us.
Sooner or later these people are bound to join our ranks. No amount
of propaganda can keep them away from us.
The main problem therefore before us is to organise joint action and
a united front against the forces that stand in our way in the
achievement of our goal. This will require re-christening our
organization as a non-communal political body and introducing
certain amendments in its constitution and its rules.
I reiterate today what I have said so often. Firstly, we must end
communalism by ceasing to think in terms of Muslims and non-muslims
when discussing our political problems. Secondly there must be
universal suffrage on the basis of joint electorate, without these
two democracy is lifeless.
You complain that the Hindus belonging to the vested interests are
reactionary and stand in the way of our progress.
But have we not had the same experience in the case of capitalist
Muslim also? It is significant as well as hopeful that in spite of
many difficulties in their way some non-muslims have cooperated with
us though their number is very small. Their sincerity and moral
courage make us feel their strength. We must, therefore, open our
doors to all such Hindus and Sikhs, who like ourselves believe in
the freedom of their country from the shackles of an irresponsible
rule