Office of the Historian

501.BC Kashmir/12–2448: Telegram

The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State

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New Delhi, December 24, 1948—noon.

1117.

1.
Lozano left for Karachi this morning. Before departure he told us strictest secrecy, Nehru last night had orally accepted UNCIP December 11 proposals as elucidated by 2 memoranda to text of which Lozano had agreed.
2.
He added that GOI had sought modifications December 11 proposals during course conversations which (1) would give it freedom to keep or send troops to Kashmir if it should consider it necessary in order maintain security (2) would not call for entry plebiscite administrator on duties until Articles 1 and 2 of Commission’s resolution August 13 had been carried out (3) would not bind India consult with Pakistan regarding detailed arrangements until all Pakistan and tribal troops had been withdrawn (4) would not require holding plebiscite until all refugees in territory now held by Pakistan restored to homes.
3.
He stated he had refused consider any interpretations which might change substance proposals and had rejected 2 memoranda suggested by GOI which contained interpretations in his opinion not intended by Commission. He proposed certain alterations in these memoranda to which Cabinet and Nehru agreed last night. The memoranda as revised are apparently to be attached to the written acceptance which he hopes receive from Indian High Commissioner Karachi.
4.
Nehru asked that GOI acceptance be kept absolutely secret pending Pakistan action and formal announcement of commission so that public opinion India could be prepared for news.
5.
Lozano asked that no intimation be given to anyone outside interested members Department and Huddle that have given us this information.
6.
Indian attitude during conversations tends to confirm Embassy’s view that GOI mistrustful of what outcome of fair plebiscite would be; it has gone so far in direction plebiscite it is difficult for it to go back at this point; it has tried to lay down conditions and stipulations which would afford pretexts in future to refuse to go on with plebiscite. Lozano convinced he has preserved integrity December 11 proposals.
7.
Lozano concerned lest delay in written confirmation GOI acceptance [Page 481] related to Indian Army reports resumption heavy shelling Poonch Airfield and communications to south and alleged Pakistan troop reinforcements this area together with shift to Pakistan Head-quarters nearer front. He told us Indian CINC Bucher tried phone Pakistan CINC 23rd, but unable reach him, and he believes Indian Army worried that Pakistan drive to isolate Poonch again is imminent. On arrival Karachi he will urge Pakistan Government hold up any contemplated drive and, as added deterrent, hopes arrange for new UNCIP military adviser proceed front immediately after expected arrival Karachi 29th.

Henderson