501.BC/5–548: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin)
283. Kashmir case (1) Despite failure thus far GOI and GOP to indicate acceptance recommendations for settlement Kashmir dispute SC resolution Apr 21,1 Dept believes that SC Commission established [Page 339] under that resolution should in accordance with operative provisions thereof proceed to Indian sub-continent earliest possible date to perform good offices functions; (2) establishment Commission and directive to proceed to area are SC decisions which UN members cannot ignore under Article 25 of Charter. Failure or undue delay in Commission’s proceeding with assigned task, particularly in view wide approval this step in SC and lack any apparent conflict between US and USSR in matter, would seriously damage prestige SC and UN; (3) While it is possible that GOI and GOP might reach peaceful bilateral settlement re Kashmir, recent history GOI–GOP relations and experience bilateral conversations NY both point to strong probability that two governments will not reach peaceful accord except with assistance good offices Commission of nature established SC resolution Apr 21; (4) Emphasis upon good offices functions SC Commission does not necessarily mean rejection detailed measures recommended SC resolution Apr 21 and care should be taken not to disavow these measures. Realistic appraisal situation, however, does point possibility that alternative procedures may eventually be found, but it is difficult envisage any means finding such alternative solution other than through dispatch SC Commission to area; (5) Re Deptel 257 Apr 26 Dept now inclined view that US could probably make greater contribution settlement Kashmir dispute by serving as member SC Commission than by merely acquiescing in choice US national as plebiscite administrator. If, therefore, USUN is approached regarding US willingness to serve as fifth member Commission, you should indicate that we are willing to participate in Commission but that if selected, we should prefer that someone other than US national be appointed as plebiscite administrator; (6) Role of plebiscite administrator at present time is highly problematical in view GOI–GOP disapproval many recommendations SC resolution Apr 21. Membership in SC Commission on other hand offers possibility for constructive leadership by US but with responsibility shared with four other governments. Sent to USUN, repeated to Delhi and Karachi.