The letter dated 17th June 1928, written by K M Munshi (from Bharuch, Gujarat) after his personal visit to Bardoli, was an important document in the history of the Bardoli Satyagraha.
Munshi, a member of the Bombay Legislative Assembly, initially wrote a letter to the governor requesting his intervention in the reign of terror unleashed upon the villagers of the Bardoli by the local administration, and an impartial inquiry into the subject. However, the reply of the governor proved to be unsatisfactory, and even insulting, as he alleged that controversy was artificially being stirred up at Bardoli by the outsiders. At this point, Munshi took it upon himself and visited Bardoli and wrote the historic letter to the Governor. In the letter, he shares his deep respect for the eighty thousand people of Bardoli for their determination and spirit of the organization. The letter elucidates the impact of Sardar Vallabhai Patel in Bardoli and how he is revered and respected by the people. Pointing out the standstill in the administration, transport and communication in Bardoli, Munshi reveals how the strong waves of the Satyagraha have captured the area. He calls the accusations of artificial agitation “grossly inaccurate” and goes on to explain the difficulties faced by the villagers for the last three months. The letter praises the villagers for moving forward, despite all hindrances. Towards the end of the letter, Munshi announces his resignation and urges the people of the presidency to indicate their verdict on the issue.
The letter, which was made to almost all Indian newspapers as well, provided a strong impetus to the people of Bardoli. Soon after, KM Munshi bravely constituted a judicial committee against the terrorization of the Government practiced in Bardoli.
Source: Indian Culture Portal