501.BC/9–3048
The Chargé in India (Donovan) to the Secretary of State
No. 1133
Subject: Editorial in Delhi Statesman, September 30, regarding Hyderabad.
Sir: I have the honor to refer to New Delhi’s telegram no. 896 of September 30, 19481 and to enclose the full text of the editorial which appeared in the Delhi Statesman of September 30, 1948 entitled “The UN and Hyderabad”.1 The views expressed in this editorial are shared by the Embassy. There is no question but that the Nizam, surrounded by a small minority of Muslim extremists, was a menace to the peace and security of India. The question whether Hyderabad was an independent state can no doubt be argued for hours but the blunt facts are that India could not permit a hostile government to function within its borders.
The Embassy cannot too strongly emphasize that American interests in India would best be served by considering the Hyderabad question as closed.
Respectfully yours,