26101947 Text of Telegram dated October 26, 1947 from Jawaharlal Nehru to the British Prime Minister, Clement Attlee:-:
26101947 Text of Telegram dated October 26, 1947 from Jawaharlal Nehru to the British Prime Minister, Clement Attlee:-:
"'For Prime Minister United Kingdom from Prime Minister India.
A grave situation has developed in the State of Kashmir. Large numbers of Afridis and other tribesmen from the Frontier have invaded State territory, occupied several towns and massacred large numbers of non-Musilms. According to our information, tribesmen have been equipped with motor transport and also with automatic weapons and have passed through Pakistan territory. Latest news is that the invaders are proceeding up the Jhelum valley road towards the valley of Kashmir.
2. We have received urgent appeals for assistance from the Kashmir Government. We would be disposed to give favorable consideration to such requests from any friendly State. Kashmir's Northern frontiers, as you are aware, run in common with those of three countries, Afghanistan, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and China. Security of Kashmir, which must depend upon control of internal tranquillity and existence of a stable Government, is vital to the security of India especially since part of the Southern boundary of Kashmir and India are common. Helping Kashmir, therefore, is an obligation of national interest to India. We are giving urgent consideration to the question as to what assistance we can give to the State to defend itself.
3.I should like to make it clear that the question of aiding Kashmir in this emergency is not designed in any way to Copy also cable to Pakistan Prime Minister.
influence the State to accede to India. Our view which we have repeatedly made public is that the question of accession in any-disputed territory or State must be decided in accordance with wishes of people and we adhere to this view. It is quite clear, however, that no free expression of will of the people of Kashmir is possible if external aggression succeeds in imperilling the integrity of its territory.
4.I have Thought it desirable to inform you of the situation because of its threat of international complications. Ends."