845.00/11–2348: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
1029. Nye British High Commissioner called on Nehru several days ago under instructions to discuss Pakistan charges of Indian offensive in Kashmir. Nye told me Nehru (1) denied India engaged in offensive or intended launch one near future; (2) described recent military action as limited defensive measures to relieve Poonch and head of [off] hostile column moving towards Leh. Nehru admitted about 5,000 reinforcements recently sent Kashmir allegedly provide more frequent relief for troops long there (Nye has heard from other sources figures somewhat in excess 5,000).
Nehru argued heatedly that although no offensive under way India had every moral legal right therefor and if one were launched Pakistan could have no reason complaining because Pakistan troops occupying Indian territory. Nye then said even if India had right to attack, as military man he could assure Nehru such offensive would end disastrously despite Indian superiority, in numbers equipment training, etc, Further, he would, stake his military reputation that India could, not even in summer defeat Pakistani and, tribesmen in Kashmir because of degree to which terrain and communications factors favored Pakistan, Even if his estimate were wrong, and India won military victory, it would be temporary unless India-maintained indefinitely large garrisons in all Kashmir. GOI could be certain that at favorable moment tribesmen and Pakistani would again ravage Kashmir unless political settlement reached by Pakistan and India.
Nye assured me he endeavored drive home point that only final solution was political and military solution impossible for either side unless India should decide on war against all Pakistan. He told Nehru he did not believe any Indian Government would consider this because would be difficult for India survive as nation if it had face indefinitely millions hostile Moslems within and without.
In reply my inquiry Nehru’s reaction Nye said latter seemed unhappy and apparently did not feel in position to refute his arguments. He added he sincerely believed everything he told Nehru and with other British here would seize every opportunity impress on GOI leaders fact they must work out with Pakistan political solution of Kashmir as no other possible.
Sent Department 1029, pouched Karachi; Department pass London, Paris for GADel and Huddle.