501.BC Kashmir/11–1848: Telegram
The Chargé in Pakistan (Lewis) to the Secretary of State
524. Prime Minister handed me last night copy of most immediate telegram just sent Pakistan Foreign Minister Paris1 with instructions to place matter before SC in writing at once. Telegram says GOP wishes draw attention SC to developments in Kashmir which are a definite violation by India of undertaking given by both governments in response to UNCIP’s (United Nations Commission on India and Pakistan) resolution September 19, 19482 which appealed both governments use their best endeavors during absence Commission to lessen existing tension this dispute in order prepare ground’ for its peaceful final settlement. Telegram says GOP has scrupulously observed the undertaking given but that India on other hand now appears determined force military decision in Kashmir. Telegram details reinforcements brought into Southern Kashmir by Indian Army and mentions recent attacks in brigade strength against Azad Kashmir forces. Says Indian Army has now started major offensive by at least one division supported by armor from Rajauri towards Kotli and Mendhar and is continually moving up reinforcements to Naushera. Telegram continues “Object undoubtedly is all-out offensive to obtain possession of Western Kashmir including Mirpur, Mangla head works and the whole of Poonch. Heavy fighting is now in progress on this front and renewed flow of refugees into West Pakistan has already begun as result of this Indian Army offensive.
Army has also renewed attack by at least one brigade over Zojila Pass and has penetrated defences of Dras. These attacks on both fronts are being supported by maximum air action. It is quite clear that India-hopes to secure a decision by military means immediately and so face UN with a fait accompli. Hitherto the Azad forces with minimum support by the Pakistan Army acting in a purely defensive role have-managed to hold Indian aggression and Pakistan Air Force has “so far not been employed in a combatant role. Pakistan Government cannot emphasize too strongly to the SC that unless immediate steps are taken by them to halt Indian Army offensive the Pakistan Government will have no option but to change their policy of using minimum’ regular forces in Kashmir and will have to stage counteroffensive with all available resources in an endeavour to prevent overrunning by Indian Army of Poonch and Mirpur provinces. This must inevitably [Page 452] lead to most bloody fighting between regular Pakistan and regular Indian Armed Forces which up till now Pakistan Government have studiously endeavoured to avoid. The situation is therefore fraught with possibilities of an extension of conflict.”
Military Attaché and Air Attaché agree with GOP estimate GOI reinforcements Kashmir and stress that in area present fighting and projected offensive fighting throughout winter is entirely practicable.
Sent Department 524, repeated New Delhi 89. Department please pass Paris 6, Geneva 4.