THE INDIAN PRINCES

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 184, 2 May 1929, Page 17

THE INDIAN PRINCES

RELATIONS WITH THE CROWN FISCAL AND POLITICAL It is understood that the report of the Indian States Inquiry Committee appointed under the chairmanship of Sir Harcourt Butler to inquire into the relationship between the Ruling Princes in India and the British Government, deals broadly with two important subjects—tiie fiscal relations of the Princes witli the Government of India and the political relations of the States with the Paramount Power. It is believed that the Butler Committee has recommended complete fiscal autonomy and complete independence to the States in fixing or levying Customs charges, duties, or tariffs, except under certain conditions. The Delhi correspondent of the “Statesman” says the committee is reported to have almost wholly rejected the theory built up by Sir Leslie Scott (who was consulted as counsel by the Princes) for direct relationship with the Crown, and has practically reaffirmed the contention that the Viceroy, as the representative of the Crown, is constitutionally quite fit to deal directly with the States. In order to facilitate the working of this theory, the committee is understood to have recommended certain changes in present methods and the reorganisation of the Political Department of the Government of India. In the case of States in whose treaties it is specifically laid down that the Government of India shall not entertain any petitions, complaints, and appeals from the subjects of such States against the Ruler of his Administration, the committee has recommended that, except, when allegations of murder, gross immorality, or disloyalty are made these should not be entertained. In the case of other States, the Coinmitte has laid down circumstances in which the paramount Power should interfere in internal matters. It is believed the Princes will not be satisfied on the question of political relations.