§ 61. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India, in view of the release of large numbers of prisoners and detainees arrested after the disturbances in 1942, why there has been discrimination between these and some of the Congress leaders.
§ The Secretary of State for India (Mr. Amery)Persons detained as a result of 361 the Congress disturbances of 1942 are being gradually released so far as is compatible with essential security considerations. Individual cases are therefore necessarily considered on their merits from that standpoint.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he has given no answer to my specific Question, why there is this discrimination, some Congress leaders having been discharged unconditionally and other people being still detained?
§ Mr. AmeryCertain Congress leaders have been discharged on grounds of health and others are detained on grounds of public security.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that those discharged on grounds of health, such as Mr. Gandhi, have perfect freedom to move and speak; should not the same apply to others who are still detained?
§ Sir John Wardlaw-MilneWill my right hon. Friend give wide publicity to the fact that the bulk af the people detained have the key of their prisons in their own hands if they will give guarantees for their future conduct?
§ Mr. AmeryIf we had satisfactory assurances which would protect the security of India, a new situation would arise.
§ Mr. SorensenDid the right hon. Gentleman get that assurance from Gandhi? I beg to give notice that at the earliest opportunity I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment, in view of the unsatisfactory reply.