130 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
“The Franchise Committee met at the Viceregal Lodge. Dr. Ambedkar, on behalf of the Depressed Classes, pleaded for the incorporation in the Indian Penal Code or in the future constitution, of a punishment for the instigation or promotion of boycott against the Depressed Classes which prevented them from the free enjoyment of the fundamental rights. The Franchise Committee accepted the suggestion.
When the news of the Rajah-Moonje pact was out, the Bengal and Assam Depressed Class leaders denounced Rajah for his swing to the System of Joint Electorates with reserved seats, and supported the demands put forth by Dr. Ambedkar. M. B. Malik, M.L.A., President, Bengal Depressed Class Association ; the President, U.P. Adi-Hindu Association ; the President, All-Assam Depressed Class Association ; the President, Adi-Dharma Mandal, Punjab ; the President, Depressed Class Aid Society, Delhi ; all denounced Rajah and endorsed the demands put forth by Dr. Ambedkar.
It was in April 1932 that the Nasik Satyagraha entered its third stage, and its leaders Bhaurao Gaikwad and Rankharnbe were arrested. News about their arrest was wired to Dr. Ambedkar the same day, i.e. the April 14, 1932. The extreme opposition of Chintamani, Bakhale and Tambe, the Hindu Members of the Franchise Committee, to the demand of the Depressed Classes for Separate Electorates had created bad blood between them and Dr. Ambedkar. They were not even on speaking terms with Dr. Ambedkar. Amid such tense atmosphere Dr. Ambedkar informed his secretary that he was sorry he could not deal with two situations at the same time. He was of the opinion that the prob lem of political rights was more important than the problem of temple entry ; and therefore it was unwise and dangerous to deviate from that work to which he had devoted himself heart and soul.
In a letter written from Simla, Dr. Ambedkar said that it was very imperative to see the British Premier in London before the latter gave his decision on the communal issue. He, therefore, asked his trusted lieutenants to see whether it was possible to collect money for the proposed voyage without disclosing the reasons. He had also written to the Aga Khan, who was then in London, seeking his