§ 54. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India what is the nature and extent of the ban on voluntary organisations in India; and how far this applies to Indian Congress volunteer organisations?
§ The Secretary of State for India and Burma (Mr. Amery)There is no ban in India on volunteer organisations as such, but in view of the feelings of insecurity which have been occasioned by the recent increase in what Mr. Gandhi has described as "private armies," run on party or communal lines, orders have been recently issued, under the Defence of India Rules, prohibiting drilling of a military nature, with or without arms, and the wearing of uniforms resembling official uniforms, by private individuals.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Gandhi himself has condemned these so-called amateur armies?