(EDITORIAL) The publication of a further instalment of the species of literature known as “Gandhi-Wavell correspondence” [is jarring] to public sentiment… . That Mr. Gandhi has been unwise in carrying on a double correspondence must be clear from the effects now gathered. When he was discharged from detention, he should have made up his mind about negotiations with the Muslim League for some sort of a settlement whether final or provisional. …

…[W]hat is called the proposal [made by Mr. Gandhi] is the idea of a National Government responsible to the elected members of the present over-age assembly, a change impossible without the amendment of the Constitution. The misgivings of the Muslim League regarding the hypothetical scene, unworkable in the present circumstances, must be known to Mr. Gandhi. He nevertheless, after his approach to Mr. Jinnah goes on discussing with the Viceroy in secret about the prospects of a “National Government” in terms found unacceptable four years ago … .

… [O]ne thing we would tell [Mr. Gandhi]. He can’t have it both ways, canvassing for a National Government of the Congress conception with the Viceroy and at the same time seeking peace with the Muslims on the Pakistan basis…. (Dawn, Delhi)

Published in Dawn, August 19th, 2014