793B.00/7–2251: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in India
849. Embtels 269 Jul 19 and 302 Jul 21 reported assurances from Dutt that GOI had taken steps convey to DL GOI willingness grant asylum. Appears however that either GOI never took such step or [Page 1836] message never reached DL. Dept notes Tibetan informants believe GOI has obstructed and discouraged DL plans.
Dept believes next few weeks critical period for Tibetan consideration Sino-Tibetan agreement and possible flight DL. It therefore appropriate make further urgent effort persuade DL leave Tibet and repudiate agreement. [Name deleted] . . . . Request soonest views Emb and ConGen re following proposal.
Suggest Emb confidentially inform Bajpai or Dutt (whichever you believe more likely be responsive) that Emb concerned by reports Tibetans feel strongly impending loss Tibetan autonomy. Many influential Tibetans reportedly believe DL’s present plight due lack of sympathy and support from GOI. Inquire whether GOI has similar reports and request GOI appraisal Tibet developments. Emb may comment it wld be most unfortunate if simple misunderstanding by Tibetans has deleterious effect on Tibet and possibly on personal safety DL. Suggest point out misunderstanding might have arisen from fact Dayal had not received instrs when Shakabpa made tentative inquiry Jul. Emb reports suggest assurances expressed by Dutt to Emb apparently did not reach DL. Might be appropriate at this point to inquire whether GOI has info indicating DL did receive GOI assurances.
FYI Record shows US cannot rely on initiative GOI in new approach to DL. However, Dept hopes new Emb approach to GOI may result in GOI statements providing basis for Emb message to DL indicating receipt by Emb of recent assurance from GOI that asylum or transit privilege will be granted DL on request.