LOYAL INDIA?

Taranaki Daily News, 31 January 1921, Page 5

LOYAL INDIA?

PROGRESS OF ROYAL TOUR.' I CALCUTTA’S WELCOME. EXTREMISTS’ BOYCOTT FAILS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—CopyrightReceived Jan. 29, 5.30 p.m. Delhi, Jan. 28. The Duke of Connaught was warmly welcomed by large crowds at Calcutta during the Royal procession of two and a half miles from the Howrah station to Government House. An address presented by the corporation of Calcutta referred to the developments in the city since the Duke’s last visit in 1889, and declared that the present visit was proof of the King-Em-peror’s sympathetic interest in India. The address concluded with an expression of unfailing loyalty and devotion, and also profound regret at the postponement of the Prince of Wales’ visifr, to which all were looking forward in the near future. In reply, the Duke of Connaught expressed pleasure at renewing acquaintance with the great city which was the London of the East. He reminded, his hearers of the potent influence of such a city in moulding public opinion and setting standards of public conduct in other parts of the country. In the new chapter of Indian political development which it was his mission to open Calcutta would necessarily exercise a predominant influence. He had every confidence that the citizens would continue to be animated by those qualities which had served them and their country so well in the past and that others would continue to look' to the city for right leading. He would gladly convey the message of loyalty and devotion, and he shared their hope that the Prince of Wales would shortly visit India to win the same widespread affection which his magnetic personality evoked in other parts of the Empire. The Duke of Connaught was subsequently welcomed by the Governor. The city’s welcome was very enthusiastic, but non-co-operators previously conducted a strong campaign with the purpose of boycotting the visit, and this, coupled with the presence of Gandhi (the well-known extremist) had the effect that part of the city observed a strict “hatred example.” There were a few public vehicles plying, and most of the shops were closed.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. Delhi, Jan. 28. The extremists are making frantic efforts to boycott the Duke of Connaught’s visit to Calcutta Shops, bazaars, hotels and restaurants will be closed by order of the extremists. Indians are ordered to refuse to work steamers on the river or permit traffic In the main streets. There will be no illuminations. The tramwaymen have declared a general, strike., The student population is aggressive. Gandhi is making wild speeches, declaring that the present regime is the Kingdom, of Sin.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.