The Bombay Congress Bulletin for January 23, 1931, one mimeographed page both sides, 8.25 x 13, clearly signed in fountain pen at the bottom of the front page, “MK Gandhi.” This important newsletter was published during the stormiest period of modern Indian history, during which Gandhi emerged as the most visible and powerful voice for Indian independence. The purpose and editorial position of the Bulletin clearly emerges in its forceful, impassioned tone: “If there is any class of the Indian population that has suffered the most, during the 150 years of British regime, there [sic] are the masses of workers and the peasants. With bleeding assessments, and squeezing moneylenders, the peasants, year in, year out, live a life of hand to mouth, suffering cold in winter, sun in summer and rain in monsoon…. If he is audacious enough to claim either Education or other advantages of a so-called civilized Government, his path is barred by many an obstacle.” From an item titled “Congress & the Masses”: “The peasantry of Gujerat is fighting starvation and disease, for, theirs is a question of life and death. They have invited exile, for, they see the hollowness of the hideous machinery of British Government.” Gandhi signs immediately below a dramatic statement written in all caps and underlined: “Brothers, can you forget so soon the blood spilt at Peshawar, can you forget the thousand and one Lathi charges you have witnessed the last ten months in Bombay, and the martyrs who have either been shot dead or hanged.” Elsewhere the Bulletin reprints the text of a telegram sent by the Governor in Bombay to Gandhi, pleading with him to “postpone decision till we meet,” evidently referring to a planned protest action. In fine condition, with mild soiling and light intersecting folds, none near signature. A beautifully signed piece with a highly significant association! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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