357.AB/7–1851: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Secretary of State
priority
102. Re Indian troop movements. At close of long and very cordial conversation with Rau at lunch today he read to Gross and Ross1 from top secret telegram he had just received from his FonOff on question of Indian troop movements. Referring to Nehru’s Bangalore speech, telegram stressed that reasons for Indian troop movements exactly as described by Nehru. Flat statement was made in telegram that India did not want war nor did it want to take any measures which might lead to war. Reference was made to broad, nationwide elections as important factor indicating India does not want war.
After referring to reduction of some fifty-two thousand in total Indian armed forces, telegram went on to refer, apparently in some detail, to Pakistan propaganda for jehad against India, to strengthening of Pakistan forces, to border incidents about Kashmir, to violence [Page 1781] and incitement, to disorder within Kashmir, all directly traceable, according to telegram, to Pakistan sources.
Evidence was also cited to effect that British officers were conversing with and even assisting in carrying out Pakistani policies in regard to such incidents. Specific reference was made to activities in this regard apparently in both east and west Pakistan, of Gracie2 and Auchinleck.3 Telegram emphasized defensive character Indian troop movements in light of factors recited.
Rau emphasized top secret character of info he was giving us, pledging us to strictest confidence with particular reference to comments concerning activities of Gracie and Auchinleck.
After reading from this telegram Rau expressed half-jokingly hope we would not find it necessary to follow UK lead too closely.
Rau said Graham had made excellent impression on Nehru who found Graham very serious and sincere man; Nehru has issued orders that Graham is to be shown every courtesy.