123 Henderson, Loy W.: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
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[Received] December 4—5:02 a. m.]
1385. 1. I am this morning asking for opportunity to talk with Nehru before Wednesday.1 I hope to discuss with him informally Far East situation prior to parliamentary debate on foreign affairs scheduled for Wednesday.
2. I am asking for this appointment because present indications are that during these debates GOI, or debaters operating under instructions Congress Party, may take attitude quite critical of US and friendly towards Communist China. Such information as comes to me is to effect that Nehru in off-record talks is vehemently denouncing any suggestion of use of atomic weapons; is rather violent in his condemnation, of UN forces for crossing 38th parallel contrary to his advice; shows special hostility towards General MacArthur; et cetera. In addressing all India newspaper editors conference yesterday morning Nehru emphasized that no country should endanger world peace on mere grounds of prestige or anger. Inference drawn by those who heard him was that he meant to imply that present policy US was prompted by these motives.
3. It is my intention providing atmosphere permits to point out to Prime Minister unfortunate impression which would be created of US if government of friendly country like India should in this hour of great strain take position which would place major portion blame [Page 1345] for present situation on country armed forces of which, acting under UN direction, were making tremendous sacrifices and incurring terrific risks in order to curb brutal and open aggression. I intend do my best persuade Prime Minister that GOI, by publicly criticizing those opposing aggression while not denouncing aggressors, would not be contributing to solution of present acute situation or to discouragement of aggressors in future.
4. If Department has any suggestions would appreciate them urgently since they may arrive before interview.2