GANDHI FASTING

Wairarapa Times-Age, 4 March 1939, Page 5

GANDHI FASTING

IN SUPPORT OF ULTIMATUM IN RAJKOT. . DEMAND FOR CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright. BOMBAY, March 3. Mr Gandhi stated .that he is fasting as Rajkot from 6.30 a.m. G.M.T. today. After prayers Mr Gandhi began his fast in the presence of journalists and a large assembly of men, women and children. Ninety minutes later he received a letter declining his demands. Gandhi remarked: “This adds fuel to the fire.” Rajkot people are striking for one day in sympathy. An earlier message from Rajkot stated: Mahatma Gandhi threatened that unless he receives a satisfactory reply to a 24-hour ultimatum demanding constitutional reforms in Rajkot State he will begin an indefinite fast at 6.30 a.m. on March 3. He demands that the people be given a voice in the Administration. “God save me from this remedy to end the agony of the people of Rajkot,” he said. “This decision has cost me many sleepless nights. The- world should not laugh. Rightly or wrongly I have no other course. What may appear to be inexplicable actions are really due to my inner promptings. If they cost me my life I shall willingly give it in order to secure the fulfilment of a sacred pledge.” Indians all over the country are deeply stirred by the proposed fast. Mr Gandhi’s father was one ol .the Prime Ministers of Rajkot.