845.00/9–1248: Telegram
The Chargé in India (Donovan) to the Secretary of State
822. Embtel 813, September 111 reporting Nehru’s statement that final reply to letter from GOI to Hyderabad demanding facilities for stationing Indian troops at Secunderabad had not been received.
Embassy advised by UK High Commissioner’s office that Hyderabad has now replied in the negative. GOI has also written Hyderabad that, in view of refusal Nizam grant necessary facilities, GOI reserves all freedom of action. Cabinet defense committee meeting to be held today to make final decision. Decision will be political not military as army is convinced its ability carry out campaign successfully but has pointed out certain risks to government, particularly possible intensification military pressure from GOP in Kashmir.
Bucher told me yesterday all British officers with Hyderabad army had resigned. He said Indian army would be in Hyderabad city five days after it crossed frontier taking into account maximum resistance which might be offered. He said Hyderabad had no bombers but that they might use Dakotas to drop bombs; however he does not consider bombing by Hyderabad planes a problem.
He expressed concern over presence in Hyderabad of 5,000 Pathans including civilians and soldiers and said they would be serious problem in event civil disturbances.
Sent Department 822, pouched Karachi, Consulates India. Department pass London.
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