Asked how the basis for a democratic government could be established as long as mutual distrust between Hindus and Muslims exemplified by this view persisted, Rajagopalachari evaded the issue. .   . ... Asaf Ali, he said, did not command respect or confidence of Muslim Indians.  .   . ..…

Indeed, the government says its shutdown of normal activities in the Muslim-majority Kashmir Valley stems from desire to save lives. ..…

But this victory for progressive forces, as Kutty highlights, was short-lived since the government of Muslim League dismissed popularly elected government and imposed governor's rule with Maj-Gen Iskandar Mirza as the governor. ..…