MEETING after an interval of nearly two years, the annual session of the Chamber of Princes on Thursday heard the Viceroy Lord Wavell give an assurance on one of the main points of difference which led to the crisis of 1944, namely treaty rights and relationship with the Crown.

“I can assure you,” said the Viceroy, “that there is no intention on our part to initiate any change in this relationship or these rights without your consent. I am confident that Your Highness will through your accredited representatives take your full share in the preliminary discussions, which were announced in my broadcast of September 19, as well as in the intended constitution-making body and that your consent to any changes which emerge as a result of these negotiations will not unreasonably be withheld.

“I am also confident that in your approach to these problems you will have no intention or desire to stand in the way of the growth of India to its full stature or to hinder the political, economic or social progress and advancement of your subjects. It will rather be natural and in accordance with your traditions that you should become leaders in peace.”

Published in Dawn, January 18th, 2021