GANDHI’S THREAT

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 244, 14 September 1932, Page 7

GANDHI’S THREAT

FAST AS A PROTEST.

MOTIVES FOR ACTION,

HARD TO UNDERSTAND.

(United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (British Official Wireless.) Received September 14, 10.0 a.m. RUGBY, Sept. 13.

With reference to the reports thatl the Government of India intends to release Gandhi from prison when he begins his fast on September 20, it may bo stated that no such decision has) been taken. The steps which may be necessary if Gandhi carries out hia threat to fast unto death are, however, receiving close consideration. The public finds it difficult to understand the motives which led Gandhi to> take tho action announced in his correspondence with tho British Minister* It is only because portions of the Indian section could not agree on their own settlement of the communal questions that the Government made an award that gave the Untouchables separate representation for 20 years-, while leaving them to vote as part of the undivided Hindu community. It is this decision which, according to Gandhi, will destroy Hinduism. Tho Manchester Guardian does not see that Gandhi’s decision is made at a call of conscience and in the cause of truo religion, but that does not make it easier to understand. “Those who have personal influence with Gandhi will surely urge on him that he can be of greater help to the causes to which he is devoted by living to work for them.”

The Daily Telegraph says: “Gandhi does not attempt to refute at any point the long and careful presentation of the issues telegraphed to him by the Prime Minister. In the setting up of separato electorates ho senses a danger to himself as the lifelong champion of the Untouchables.”

A message published yesterday stated that Gandhi threatened to fast unto death as a protest against tho Government’* communal settlement.