§ MR. CAINEI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for India if any steps have been taken by the Government of Madras to suppress the recent revival of public self-torture by religious enthusiasts; especially that of the hook-swinging festival which has recently been established at Sholovandan, and which actually took place there 9th June, 1892; if he is aware that a full account of this festival appeared in the Madura Mail of 11th June, 1892; and whether it is true, as stated in that report, that Surgeon Major F. C. Beeves was at Sholovandan to examine one Chinaman, the person who was to undergo the hook-swinging, with a view to pronouncing him physically fit for the purpose; is Surgeon Major Reeves in the service of the Indian Government; and is it usual for Government servants to assist at such ceremonies?
§ *THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Mr. GEORGE RUSSELL,) North Beds.The Government of Madras, while strongly disapproving of the practice of hook-swinging, have not thought it expedient to prohibit it, but they have for many years pursued with success the policy of discouraging it. The recent revival of the practice in the district of Madura has engaged the attention of the Secretary of State, and the Governments of India and Madras, with whom the subject is now raider consideration. (2.) The Secretary of State has not seen the report in the Madura Mail, and has no information as to the alleged action of Surgeon Major Reeves, but he will make inquiry on the subject. (3.) Surgeon Major Reeves is in the service of the Government or India. (4.) The Secretary of State has 520 no reason to suppose that Government servants are present on such occasions, unless with the object of maintaining order and securing compliance with the law.