SIMLA: The Leaders’ Conference opened at Viceregal Lodge at 11.30 a.m. to-day [June 25]. All invitees were present except Mr. Gandhi…

H.E. the Viceroy in his opening remarks to the Conference said: “Before we begin on the agenda of this Conference the outcome of which has a momentous influence on the destiny of India, I feel there are a few words I should say to you. First, I welcome you all as men who by character and ability have risen to leadership in your provinces and parties. I have called you together from all parts of India, at this critical moment in her history, to advise and help me in advancing India towards prosperity, political freedom and greatness. I ask you to give me that help in a spirit of broad co-operation towards the good of India as a whole.

“It is not a constitutional settlement, it is not a final solution of India’s complex problems that is proposed. Nor does the plan in any way prejudge or prejudice the final issue. But if it succeeds, I am sure it will pave the way towards a settlement and will bring it nearer…”

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2020