Charan Singh renews interest in the BKD, envisions stronger coalitions against the Congress

May 1968

In the interregnum, the BKD had organised itself in separate state party units which could not come to a common consensus as most state chapters wanted to be independent to pursue alliances and policies. By April, 1968, Charan Singh too had renewed his interest in the party following his resignation as Chief Minister. At this time, attempts are made to change the BKD’s internal structure. The party moves a resolution to streamline its doctrinal line among these disparate state units, making sure no alliances would be made with parties disinclined towards the “nationalist and Gandhian path.” Members found in violation were subsequently debarred, signalling a move towards the formation of a proper party rather than a loose alliance. A subcommittee was also formed by the Dal to explore possibilities of alliances with other “like-minded” parties. To this effect, Charan Singh writes to C. Rajagopalachari of the Swatrantra Party and takes the responsibility to helm these efforts. This was a whole new chapter in his history of building coalitions.