A PLAN FOR INDIA
Sir,—Much has been written lately about the desirability of a new approach to the problem of future Indian Government. But not no much, apparently, has been written to suggest a definite kind of new approach; and yet this aspect seems equally deserving of attention. The devising of a satisfactory constitution for India as a whole seems almost beyond the wit of man. I suggest that those who are interested should consider a plan by which the various parts of India (Indian States and Provinces, with modifications of boundaries if necessary) might acquire full autonomy subject to their entering into treaty relations with the British Government.
The arranging of this would no doubt be, as a former Viceroy used sometimes to remark on difficult files, a hard nut for somebody to crack—but surely not beyond the capacity of our statesmen. It would not be palatable to the Congress leaders, who naturally prefer an all-India stage ; but the Moslem leaders could hardly object in principle seeing that they have already proposed a partition; and it would be awkward for sincere advocates of independence (whether in or out of Congress) to object outright to a plan which manifestly offers independence; while the British critic will no doubt note the provision for preserving British trusteeship. The ultimate aim would be voluntary federation of the various independent units.—Yours,
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