October, 1971

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s1600/eng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s1600/eng.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr> </tbody></table> October 2: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1002_71_telegram1.htm">Discussion Between</a> US Secretary Rogers and India FonMin Swaran Singh (India)-Bangla Desh-GOP Negotiations:</li> </ul> <blockquote> Secretary urged GOI initiate dialogue without insisting upon Mujib’s participation to see what could be accomplished. Swaran Singh replied that US has contacts with Bangla Desh people. It has greater influence, it should try bring about dialogue.</blockquote> October 3: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1003_71_contact_Bangladesh_reps.htm">Telegram from Amconsul Calcutta to Secretary State Washington DC</a>: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Qaiyum met Political Officer October 3 to pass mes­sage from BD “Acting President” Islam requesting speedy USG re­sponse to BDG demarche presented to Poloff by “Fonmin” Mushtaq Ahmed September 28.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Qaiyum reported Mukti Bahini plans to inject 40 to 60 thou­sand armed men into East Pakistan by end of October in effort to wreck GOP administration. <br /> He quoted Islam as saying only Mujib can negotiate anything less than independence for BD and that in Mujib’s absence BDG has no choice but to demand complete independence. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Later, Qaiyum said only he, Islam, Mushtaq and “two other members of Cabinet” were aware of substance and fact of Mushtaq’s meeting with Poloff.”</blockquote> October 5: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1005_statement_kahlon.htm">Statement by Shri G.S. Kahlon, Rehabilitation Secretary, Government of India</a> In the 22nd session of the executive committee of UNHCR held in Geneva:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> "Beginning from end of March, within a couple of months total influx of refugees into India had gone up to nearly four million, and today it has crossed 9 million already, without any signs of them returning to East Pakistan at all. Average inflow per day still continues to be between 30,000 to 50,000 persons, and if this rate continues at this scale we may well have not less than 12 million refugees on our hands by end of this year. "</blockquote> October 7: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1007_71_analytical_summary.htm">Analytical Summary Prepared by the National Security Council Staff</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The State Department paper judges that the political steps taken so far by President Yahya, which exclude the Awami League, do not provide the basis of a settlement acceptable to the Bangla Desh leadership in Calcutta. To facilitate a political evolution, the paper suggests that “our next step should be designed to promote the beginning of a dialogue between the government of Pakistan and the Bangla Desh leadership.” The paper notes that we have two possible channels-the Government of India and the Bangla Desh representatives in Calcutta and elsewhere. State suggests that we say we believe President Yahya would be receptive to a dialogue. The problem with this is that as far as we know the Bangla Desh leadership only wants to negotiate on the basis of independence and the release of Mujib.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1007_71_WSAG.htm">Minutes of Washington Special Actions Group Meeting</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote> “Senior Pakistani officials are convinced that Yahya will launch a pre-emptive attack in the next few weeks. Yahya himself has given the British the impression that he is considering such action, but he has assured our DCM he is not.</blockquote> <blockquote> The secret treason trial of Mujibur Rahman has antagonized the East. A reliable source says he has been sentenced to life imprisonment. Yahya can uphold the sentence, commute it or let the matter lie. His decision will be an indication of how conciliatory he intends to be toward East Pakistan.”</blockquote> October 8: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1008_71_telegram2.htm">Telegram from the Department of State to the Embassy in Pakistan</a> US warns India to stop assisting Mukti Bahini:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “We have heard reports for some time of possible large-scale cross-border effort by Mukti Bahini to coincide with end monsoon season. We would, therefore, strongly urge that GOI act immediately to reduce these risks by efforts with MB to restrict cross-border operations. While we recognize that major responsibility for maintenance of India-Pak peace rests with GOP, GOI also bears major responsibility keep present situation from deteriorating into war or prolonged insurgency. Should such cross-border operations lead to conflict with Pakistan, this would have serious effect on US-India relations.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1008_71_telegram3.htm">Yahya’s letter to Nixon</a> asking American support:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Pakistan is considering to call a meeting of the Security Council to consider serious threat to peace in the sub-continent arising from India’s open and mounting interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs and ever-increasing Indian military activities on Pakistan’s borders.” </blockquote> October 9: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1009_71_telegram5.htm">Telegram from the Department of State to the Consulate General in Calcutta</a></li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “USG has no desire place itself between GOP and BD reps or to enter into merits of po­sitions of either side. USG therefore has no substantive comment to make on points raised by Mushtaq. We would urge, rather, that the BD reps seek earliest opportunity to present views directly to GOP reps, in effort explore possibility of negotiated settlement.”</blockquote> October 10: <br /> <ul> <li>“Six month long ban on politics in Pakistan lifted, yet Awami League is Illegal. Following the ban on the Awami League, the biggest single faction in the Assembly became the People’s Party of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.” ( <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1010_71_ban.htm">Reuters </a>)  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Pakistan: The propaganda War : The Sunday Times (<a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/October/2nd%20Week/Oct2_001a.jpg">Page 1</a>) (<a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/October/2nd%20Week/Oct2_001b.jpg">Page 2</a>)</li> </ul> October 11: <br /> <ul> <li>Pakistan Peoples Party’s Karachi Secretary Meiraj Mohammad Khan admits <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1011_71_peoples_party_leader.htm">Razakar terror</a>. </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Meiraj alleged that in East Bengal “power in effect has been transferred to those reactionary and anti-people political parties defeated in the elections and rejected by the people”.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> He named one party-the Muslim Jammaat-e-Islami group-of indulging in wholesale massacre of political opponents for which they are using their Razakars.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Meiraj, who has influence among students, added: “Under the umbrella of a Government consisting of members of defeated and reactionary parties, elections cannot be free.”</blockquote> <ul> <li>The General secretary of NAP, Moshiur Rahman and Anwar Zahid (former joint secretary) who had left the NAP in 1970 met Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leaders in Dhaka who came to survey the situation in view of forthcoming by-elections for 78 seats formerly held by mem­bers of the Awami League. Maulana Kawser Niazi, publicity secretary of the PPP said that the talks had been fruitful. The PPP and Jamaat-i- Islami were against Bangladesh and directly supported the Pakistani army. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1011_71_telegram2_consulate_Karachi.htm">Telegram from the Consulate General in Karachi to the Department of State</a> on discussion with Yahya:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “I referred specifically to possibility of Mujib’s serving as “trump card” and asked whether he might tell me anything further in that regard. Yahya noted that Mujib’s trial was still going on. If he were convicted, court would sentence him to punishment which would conceivably be death. Matter would then come before Yahya who had presidential power to modify court’s judgement. As he had already told us, he did not intend to permit any death sentence to be carried out.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Mujib’s role seemed to be a crucial issue, for example, with regard initiation any direct talks between GOP and BD leadership. We have recent indications that various pressures on BD leadership in Calcutta have inhibited any progress toward initiating talks, and one of their primary concerns seems to be that Mujib should have role. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Yahya responded that there were limits on his freedom of action. He pointed to predominant West Pak public opinion damning Mujib, and opined that not a single West Pak political leader would welcome an act to free Mujib and negotiate with him.”</blockquote> October 12: <br /> <ul> <li>Air Marshal (Retd.) Asghar Khan complains that there is no press freedom in Pakistan and he withdraws his party Tehrik-i-Istiqlal from the by-elactions. (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1012_71_asghar_plaint.htm">The Dawn</a>) </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1012_telegram_embassy.htm">Telegram from the Embassy in India to the Department of State</a> on discussion with Indian Foreign Minister Swaran Singh and Foreign Secretary Kaul:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Foreign Minister</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (a) claimed East Pakistan insurgency profoundly rooted in Bengali alienation and has own dynamic, not dependent upon India.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (b) argued insurgency exists deep within East Pakistan and significance of cross-border activities easily exaggerated and any event GOI cannot shoot down East Bengalis entering or departing India. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (c) noted how long insurgency will be prolonged and whether it leads to Pak attack upon India depends upon GOP.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (d) stressed insurgency is caused basically by Pak military repression to which Mukti Bahini (MB) is reaction. and</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (e) concluded US has heavy responsibility to exercise its “great influence” with GOP. Foreign Minister asserted in event GOP agreed to withdraw military forces from Indo-Pak borders, GOI could reconsider situation in light circumstances at that time.” </blockquote> October 13: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/October/2nd%20Week/Oct2_SD_001.jpg">Bangla Desh Government’s reaction</a> to Yahya’s broadcast to the nation.</li> </ul> October 14: <br /> <ul> <li>Abdul Monem Khan, former Governor of East Pakistan, died of gunshot wounds inflicted by two men who visited his home in Dacca. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1014_71_telegram_amconsul.htm">In absence of BD “Foreign minister” Mushtaq Ahmed, Poloff met BD “High Commissioner” Hossain Ali</a> and briefed US position:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Ali said Yahya’s October 12 broadcast to nation showed Yahya still trying pull wool over world’s eyes. They had seen no glimmer of hope for change in Yahya’s remarks.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Ali noted that Mukti Bahini had worked hard to build itself up in past few months, was ready for battle and eager to fight for independence of BD. Poloff argued that continuation and escalation of violent method by MB might lead to death, destruction and suffering, which USG earnestly hoped could be avoided. It would be much better for BD to find peaceful solution to their prob­lems so that energies of MB could be more constructively channeled to rebuild in East. While Ali agreed that this might be more desirable solution, he said he was not sure in his own mind that it would be possible for simple reason he did not believe Yahya would peace­fully accord independence to BD.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1014_71_telegram_sec_state.htm">US Dept of state’s direction to Ambassador regarding dialog with Yahya: Future of Mujib and political accom­modation</a></li> </ul> October 15: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1015_71_letter_gov_bangladesh.htm">Letter from the Government of Bangla Desh to the Prime Minister of India</a> requesting for recognition to the free and duly constituted Government of Bangla Desh.</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Since the formal proclamation of our Independence on April 10, our struggle for liberation has gained increased momentum and strength. Nearly 60,000 members of the former East Bengal Regiment, East Pakistan Rifles and other para-military formations identified themselves with the struggle of the 75 million people of Bangla Desh and took up arms in defence of our motherland. They were joined by hundreds of thousands of young men whom they trained to defend the sovereignty and independence of their homeland, and to release it from the bonds of colonial oppression. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The policy of repression has continued with increasing brutality in the vain hope of liquidating the leadership and reducing the majority of the Bengali­speaking people to a minority. Members of the minority communities became special victims of the reign of terror. As a result of this policy of genocide, rape, arson and loot, nearly nine million of our men, women and children have been driven out in terror and have taken shelter in your country, and the exodus still continues.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, our undisputed leader and President, has been subjected to a secret military trial and has been reportedly condemned to death. The Awami League has been banned, which had won an unparalleled victory in the national elections held last December. The military regime of Pakistan has disqualified 79 duly elected representatives of the people and has imposed a so-called civilian regime consisting of defeated candidates and quislings which is now supported by the might of the military machine of Pakistan. These gestures have not deceived the 75 million people of Bangla Desh. They have only exposed the deception and insincerity of the military oppressors. All this has only made us more determined than ever to liberate Bangla Desh.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> We are glad to inform you, Excellency, that this struggle has borne fruit. The liberation army of the People’s Republic of Bangla Desh, the Mukti Bahini, are in full control of half the territory of Bangla Desh. We also confirm that the Bangla Desh Government has established effective civil administration over this area which is functioning smoothly. This development has not merely been welcomed by the broad masses of the people, but the efforts of our Government have found spontaneous and overwhelming support in the areas under its control.”</blockquote> October 18: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/October/3rd%20week/oct3_001.jpg">Dhaka Guerillas start offensive</a>: The Guardian</li> </ul> October 19: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1019_71_indira_interview.htm">Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s interview with Sydney H. Schanberg</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “She did not categorically deny that India was helping them. She said instead, ‘perhaps you know, they have many helpers, mostly their own people, all over the world. Also, many avenues are open to them’. She did not elaborate. ‘Whether they have arms or not, nobody can suppress the struggle’.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Mrs. Gandhi cited ‘threatening statements from Pakistan which, we feel, cannot be entirely ignored’. She mentioned, in particular, the speech last week of President Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan in which he accused India of ‘feverish military preparations’ and called on his people to meet the threat as a nation of one hundred and twenty million mujahids or preachers of Islam ‘whose hearts are pulsating with love of the Holy Prophet’.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Mrs. Gandhi was asked if she felt there was a breaking point to the economic and social pressures placed on India by the refugees, a point beyond which India might feel compelled to take military action against Pakistan to halt the influx. “Well, actually, I would say, we have already reached it “, she replied. “But this does not mean that we are going to crack under it”. </blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1019_71_telegram_dep_state.htm">Yahya’s Letter to President Nixon</a>: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “In an already tense situation India’s land, sea and air forces have been brought to a state of confrontation against Pakistan’s frontiers in both the wings. There are 7 divisions of the Indian army which are deployed against West Pakistan and additional forces have been put in a state of readiness to move to forward positions at short notice.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Mr. President, the inevitable conclusion that one can draw from this offensive posture of the Indian armed forces is that it is pointed in the direction of conflict and not of peace. May I urge you to impress upon the Government of India the need for urgent constructive steps with a view to arresting further deterioration of the situation in the sub-continent.”</blockquote> October 20: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1020_telegram_consulate.htm">An evaluation of East Pakistan insurgancy</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Over past three months East Pakistan insurgency has increased in intensity and widened its geographic scope of operations.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Concentrating in the rural areas, with only token activity in cities (exception has been systemic and repeated disruption of power supply to Chittagong), Mukti Bahini (MB) have stepped up their disruption of roads, bridges, railroad lines in most parts of the country. In some districts, notably Dacca, Comilla, Noakhali, Faridpur, Bakarganj, MB seems able move about almost at will and appears even to have set up parallel administration at some points. Evidence on hand suggests that insurgents are better armed than formerly, (automatic weapons, mortars, heavier explosives) and increasingly able undertake sophisticated operations (mining of ships, effective sabotage of bridges, etc.). In central and southern districts mentioned, MB has demonstrated aggressiveness and skill in ambush operations against Razakars (voluntary home guards) and army, occasionally inflicting significant casualties. Areas other than those cited above, MB activities largely confined destruction of bridges, culverts, railway lines, apparently avoiding contact with govt forces. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> To extent that “civilianization” and general amnesty were intended damp insurgent activities, they have demonstrably failed. While weariness and desire for “peace at almost any price” apparent among middle class urban groups, we have impression that younger Bengalis, particularly those in countryside, are entrenched in their detestation of Islamabad Government and bitterness against Pak army. These attitudes reinforced by persisting reports atrocities and indiscriminate retaliation carried out by government forces, principally army or Razakars, to point where even many conservative Bengalis see no other outcome than to drive army out by force.”</blockquote> October 23: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1023_71_indira_broadcast.htm">Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s Broadcast to the Nation</a> urges Indians to unite to uphold the freedom and integrity of the nation</li> </ul> October 26: <br /> <ul> <li>A <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/October/4th%20Week/Oct4_BG001.jpg">Bangla Desh Government press release</a> on Bangladesh delegation in the UNO</li> </ul> October 28: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1028_71_indira_speech_royal_institute.htm">Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s speech at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, London</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “As a result of the tragic events in East Bengal, 9,000,000 people have poured into our territory, creating a situation which seems to surpass the convulsions of partition. The crisis in Pakistan is a deep one and the spectre which haunts that unhappy country cannot be exercised by the usual recourse to blaming India. Two questions arise: first, whether religion by itself can form the basis of a nation state, especially when the state machinery is impervious to the ordinary laws of political development and cultural aspirations, and secondly, whether some action other than that of the bayonet is not necessary to win loyalty. We in India are restrained and calm in the face of provocation but we are bound to protect the interests of our country ….”</blockquote> October 30: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1030_71_letter_nixon.htm">Letter from President Nixon to Pakistani President Yahya</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> On October 26 the press in Pakistan printed the text of Yahya’s October 25 letter to U Thant welcoming his offer to mediate in the dispute between India and Pakistan. I know of the Secretary General’s very recent letter to you and Mrs. Gandhi, and I welcome the tenor of your response to that letter. </blockquote> October 31: <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/1031_71_indira_adress_india_league.htm">Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s address to the India League, London</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “It seems very strange to us how the situation can be normalized by suddenly declaring that some elected people are no longer there when they are very much in the world. You suddenly say that you are going to have new elections and that new elections are going to solve the problem. They cannot possibly solve the problem. The elections were not considered illegal when they were held, the programme put before the people was well known to the Government and the elections were presided over by the same governmental authority. They had a six-point programme on which they fought the elections and which was supported by the vast majority of the people of both sides of Pakistan. Nobody objected to it. The time to raise an objection was before the elections were fought. They could have said, "well, we don’t approve of this programme, we are not going to accept the six points and, therefore, if you want to fight the elections you will have to re-think". I do not know if it would have been proper, but certainly if any objection had to be raised, that was the time to raise it, not when the programme was accepted. The people thought it was accepted and they voted accordingly.”</blockquote> </div> </div>

October, 1971

October 2: Discussion Between US Secretary Rogers and India FonMin Swaran Singh (India)-Bangla Desh-GOP Negotiations: Secretar...

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August, 1971

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63EEuh5s4UA-BVEWm05ND7WKe-T300zXoZaC92i0229WlmoVVqibXuVAnFygXO9mdhA8rmIT4XDUXg1CBk-TRcmzpzi5XwTwFPJlazAufGZaRQkGZkU9j8-Ek7fmPKkK1QtBdXRIyQ18/s1600/eng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63EEuh5s4UA-BVEWm05ND7WKe-T300zXoZaC92i0229WlmoVVqibXuVAnFygXO9mdhA8rmIT4XDUXg1CBk-TRcmzpzi5XwTwFPJlazAufGZaRQkGZkU9j8-Ek7fmPKkK1QtBdXRIyQ18/s1600/eng.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr> </tbody></table> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 1: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> The “<a href="http://www.theconcertforbangladesh.com/">Concert For Bangla Desh</a>” is held. Ravi Shankar conceived the idea of the concert to raise awareness and funds to help the victims of the jihadi Pakistani soldiers. He got together with George Harrison, an ex-Beetle and organised one of the biggest concerts at Madison Square Garden. Shankar, Harrison, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Billy Preston, Leon Russel, Ringo Starr, Klaus Voormann, Badfinger, Pete Ham, Tom Evans, Joey Molland, Mike Gibbons, Allan Beutler, Jesse Ed Davis, Chuck Findly, Marlin Greene, Jeanne Greene, JD Green, Dolores Hall, Jim Horn, Kamala Chakravarty, Jackie Kelso, Jim Keltner, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Claudia Lennear, Lou McCreary, Ollie Mitchell, Don Nix, Don Preston, Carl Radle, Alla Rakah performed at this historic concert that brought the genocide to world attention. George Harrison wrote and sang the famous song, “Bangladesh” at the concert thus introducing the nation to the world.  </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/1st%20Week/Aug1_WPost1.jpg">George/Ringo Help from a friend</a> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/1st%20Week/Aug1_WPost2.jpg">40000 cheer two beatles</a> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0801_71_meeting_AL.htm">Telegram of Amconsul, Calcutta to Amembassy New Delhi</a>: </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kazi Zahirul Qaiyum MP of Awami League met consulate official on behalf of Khondkar Mustaque Ahmed to convey to the US government that 'A.L. Leaders are anxious for political settlement with GOP and are prepared recede from total independence demand.' </blockquote> </li> <li><blockquote> When asked about Bangladesh plans, Qaiyum said there have been several long Cabinet meetings recently, and Prime Minister Tajuddin Ahmed “is at a loss what to do.” He said that seizing and holding “liberated territory” was out of the question as two fully trained and equipped army divisions would be needed to hold significant portion of East Bengal. Rather, he thought Mukti Fouz would continue to emphasize guerrilla tactics in effort to erode West Pakistan’s econ­omy and will. He said AL had some “friends” in West Pakistan who might eventually influence the situation to AL’s advantage. Pakistan might be compelled to change its policy towards East Bengal in six months. </blockquote> </li> <li><blockquote> Qaiyum emphasized that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman must play key role in any possible settlement as only Mujib is capable of holding East Bengal people together. If Mujib is tried and executed, all hope for resolution of current impasse will be lost. For this reason Qaiyum asked that US government do everything in its power to ensure Sheikh Mujib’s safety.”</blockquote> </li> <li>Source: Bangladesh Liberation War and the Nixon White House 1971. p. 166 – 167 </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 2:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0802_71_pakistan_internal.htm">American Embassy, Islamabad reports to State Department</a> on Dacca Internal Assessment; Lahore Internal Assessment; and Karachi Internal Assessment: </li> </ul> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>Security situation has not improved. Some evidence non-cooperation. Persecution of Hindus declining in direct proportion to decline in size Hindu population. Latest estimate puts six million East Pakistan Hindus in India. Hindu monuments being destroyed some areas. Such destruction observed in Dacca and Chittagong and Hindu sculpture now very easy to obtain. Some Dacca streets with Hindu and English names renamed with Muslim names. </li> </ul> </ul> </blockquote> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li> August 3:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: left;"><ul> <li> Yahya <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0803_71_statement_Yahya.htm">announces that Sheikh Mujib</a> will be tried by special military court for ‘waging war against Pakistan’</li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li> August 5: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: left;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/1st%20Week/Aug1_BDoc2.jpg">Bangladesh Govt hails US House decision</a></li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 6: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: left;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0806_71_telegram_embassy.htm">Telegram from the Department of State to Embassy in India </a>: </li> <li style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Cross-border shelling by both Indians and Pakistanis has increased as has tempo of guerilla activity which is shifting from sabotage to direct attacks on West Pakistani forces…” </blockquote> </li> <li style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> “At a meeting with political officer of the Consulate A.L. M.N.A. Zahirul Qaiyum said he was acting ‘under specific instruction of Bangladesh Minister who hopes to convince USG to initiate negotiations with GOP which will lead to a meeting of interested parties and peaceful settlement … </blockquote> </li> <li style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> According Qaiyum, AL leaders think there is a good chance of war breaking out, perhaps in the next 15-20 days, which would be an enormous disaster for everyone on subcontinent. In long run, AL is confident that it can achieve military victory. East Bengal, however, is being devastated… Under any circumstances an enormous reconstruction job will be required. Qaiyum thought that US was only country capable of providing necessary assistance.”  </blockquote> </li> <li style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> The Consulate General in Dacca did an assessment of Qaiyum’s role in the Awami League and concluded that he was not prominent in the leadership but was probably a confidant of Khondkar Mushtaq Ahmad, the “Foreign Minister” of the Bangladesh independence movement, and a bona fide representative of Mushtaq. (Telegram 3057 from Dacca, August 8)</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <div style="text-align: left;"> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 7:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> President Nixon wrote (handwritten) personally thank Yahya for his assistance in arranging contacts between the U.S. and China. </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 9:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>A Press Note issued by the Headquarters of the Chief Martial Law Administrator said that sheikh Mujibur Rahman will be tried by a Special Military Court for "waging war against Pakistan" and other offences. The trial will commence on August 11 in camera and its proceedings will be secret. (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0809_71_official_pressnote.htm">THE DAWN, Karachi-August 10, 1971</a>) </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0809_71_statement_external.htm">A statement by External Affairs Minster of India in Lok Sabha</a> expressing reaction on Sheikh Mujib’s trial:</li> <li><blockquote> “What happened after the 25th of March this year is known to the whole world. The denial of the verdict of the people and letting loose of military opp­ression and trampling on the fundamental human rights of the people of Bangla Desh stand self-condemned. Instead of respecting the verdict of the people and acknow­ledging Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the elected and undisputed leader of Bangla Desh. the Pakistan Government has launched a reign of terror and carried out a calculated plan of genocide, the like of which has not been seen in recent times. To stage a farcical trial against Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is a gross violation of human rights and deserves to be condemned by the whole world.” <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0809_71_Indo_Soviet_Treaty.htm">India and Soviet Union enters into a treaty of peace</a>.</blockquote> </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0809_71_memorandum2.htm">Memorandum</a> from Acting Secretary of State Irwin to President Nixon on the Indo-Soviet treaty:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The essence of the Treaty is its provision that in the event of attack or the threat of attack there will be immediate mutual consultations. Each side also undertakes to refrain from giving assistance to any third party taking part in armed conflict with the other party. These clauses not only assure Soviet neutrality in the event of hostilities in South Asia but also the prospect of Soviet assistance and support in the event of war.” </blockquote> </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0809_71_memorandum3.htm">Memorandum of conversation</a> between Indian Ambassador L.K. Jha and Henry Kissinger:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> "Mr. Kissinger said he could not be more categorical in pointing out that a war between India and Pakistan would set back Indian-American relations for half a decade." </blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 10:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li> <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0810_71_protest_note.htm">Pakistan filed a protest note</a> against U.N. Secretary General’s statement regarding Sheikh Mujib’s trial. </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 11:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0810_71_memorandum_Rogers.htm">Discussion with UN Secretary General and US Secretary of State on UN Relief Effort in East Pakistan</a>. </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>US Ambassador to Pakistan’s <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0811_71_coversation_armychief.htm">conversation with Pak Army Chief of staff</a> on East Pakistan situation:</li> <li><blockquote> “Gen. Hamid acknowledges insurgency activity in East Pakistan is continuing at fairly active pace. He admits to crucial importance of successful political reconciliation but declined to express opinion on prospects. He acknowledges uncertainty on number of persons elected under Awami League ticket last December who will actually come forward to claim their seats in National Assembly. A recent publication ahows a list of 88 Awami League MNAs-elect, who are now cleared to take their seats.  </blockquote> <blockquote> Hamid said he was rather pleased with performance of “Razakars”, recruits (mainly Bengalis) from local population who have been given brief training and then put on armed duty mainly in static defense of bridges and other key structures.” </blockquote> </li> <li> He <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0811_71_conversation_refugee_relief.htm">adds further</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “GOI has not taken military measures that indicated intention to initiate war against Pakistan.” </blockquote> </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0811_71_letter_Jha.htm">Letter from the Indian Ambassador (Jha) to President Nixon</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “We apprehend that this so-called trial will be used only as a publicity to execute Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This will aggravate the situation in East Bengal and will create a serious situation in India because of the strong feelings of our people and all political parties. Hence our grave anxiety. We appeal to you to exercise your influence with President Yahya Khan to take a realistic view in the larger interest of the peace and stability of this region.” </blockquote> </li> <li> <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0811_71_minutes_SRG.htm">Minutes of Senior Review Group meeting</a> held at US President’s office: </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “President Nixon: ‘Let me be very blunt…… The US “must not – cannot – allow” India to use refugees as pretext for breaking up, Pakistan ……. That is what India wants to do.” </blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 12:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0812_71_Indo_Soviet_joint_statement.htm">Indo Soviet joint statement</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Both sides reiterated their firm conviction that….. Urgent steps be taken in East Pakistan for the achievement of political solution and for creation of conditions of safety for the return of the refugees to their homes which alone would answer the interests, of the entire people of Pakistan….”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 13: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0813_71_memorandum4.htm">Memorandum from</a> Harold Saunders, NSC staff to Henry Kissinger :  </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Bangla Desh representatives in India have recently sought out and made contact with middle ranking U.S. officials in New Delhi and Calcutta concerning a settlement with the West Pakistanis. It is not at all clear, however, what they are really fishing for. The approach in Calcutta (by Quayum), allegedly reflecting the Bangla Desh “Foreign Minister’s” wishes, was along the lines of a settlement on the basis of something less than full independence, while the approach by the ‘Foreign Secretary’ (M. Alam) in New Delhi was based on the opposite outcome of total independence.” </blockquote> </li> <li>With the Bangladesh Guerillas – The New Statesman (<a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/2nd%20Week/Aug2_BA71_a.jpg">Page 1</a>, <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/2nd%20Week/Aug2_BA71_b.jpg">Page 2</a>) </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>Bangladesh PM warns against fake trial of Mujib (<a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/2nd%20Week/Aug2_BDoc1.jpg">Page 1</a>, <a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/2nd%20Week/Aug2_BDoc2.jpg">Page 2</a>)</li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 14: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>An officer from the Consulate General in Calcutta met with Bangladesh representative Qaiyum. Qaiyum reaffirmed that he was acting under instructions from his Foreign Minister (Khondoker Mushtaq) who was prepared to accept a negotiated settlement that provided for less than complete independence. Qaiyum emphasized that only Mujibur Rahman could negotiate on behalf of the people of East Bengal, and only he could get them to accept a political settlement. Qaiyum added, “if Sheikh is alive, there is hope for compro­mise, if he is killed, there is no hope.” (Telegram 2321 from USConsul Calcutta) </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0814_71_meeting_Bangladesh_representative.htm">Telegram from AmConsul Calcutta to Secretary of State</a>: </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> Foreign Minister Mustaaque planning a trip to Moscow, but would like to visit U.S. First. </blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 15: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/3rd%20Week/Aug3_SD_N.jpg">Interview with Aga Hilaly</a> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/3rd%20Week/aug3_us.jpg">Statement by senator Edward Kennedy</a> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>August 17:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>Vice Admiral S.M. Ahsan, the governor of East Pakistan until end of February 1971 <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0817_71_events_Pakistan.htm">on current situation</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Ahsan recommended that special USG representative be sent to talk to Yahya before it is “too late” to explain absolute necessity of finding political solution in East Pakistan, which possible only through rehabilitation and use of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Prior to March at least, separation from Pakistan was not Mujib’s intention and hopefully his attitude has not significantly altered. </blockquote> </li> <li><blockquote> The source of power and voice of authority in Pakistan is President Yahya. He is first and last authority. </blockquote> </li> <li><blockquote> India’s position, has despite public outcry, been reasonably moderate and its hands before the events in March were relatively clean.” The Washington Special Actions Group Meeting <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0817_71_Washington_special.htm">reiterated that</a> ‘The basic (U.S.) policy is to be helpful in maintaining the integrity of Pakistan.’</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 18:</li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>Memorandum from the <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0818_71_memo_Kissinger.htm">Kissinger to President Nixon</a>:  </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> - In East Pakistan, a serious insurgency movement is now underway in the countryside and is beginning to penetrate the major cities. This has been fed by the Indians in terms of logistics, training and some arms, but basically reflects a strong Bengali will to resist the West Pakistanis. This in turn provokes an army response which stimulates further refugee flow.  </blockquote> </li> <li><blockquote> - The refugee flow to India continues. This has increased to a rate of some 50,000 per day after a drop in late July. This could be a temporary aberration; it could result from a new increase in violence; or it could reflect hunger in some pockets. Just maintaining the present number of refugees is projected to cost (Indians) $600 million in a year, a figure larger than the net flow of foreign aid from consortium donors.</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 19:</li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0814_71_memorandum5.htm">Letter from President Nixon to President Yahya</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> Both your officials and ours recognize that the most immediate priority is to mount a major effort to avert famine in East Pakistan. This step is fundamental to progress in re-establishing normal conditions. I am confident that you also share our judgment that it would also be helpful in this task for you to continue your efforts to build on the program announced in your June 28 address for enlisting the support of the elected representatives of the East Pakistani people in the urgent work of national reconciliation. </blockquote> </li> <li> <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0820_71_telegram.htm">Meeting </a>with President Yahya, M.M. Ahmad and US Ambassador Farland:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Yahya discussed his plans to associate Bengalis in administration of province by clearing 88 of former Awami League representatives to National Assembly. He said that only some 15 or 16 of the 88 were presently in Dacca and they were being protected by the government since they feared for their lives. The rest of 88 were either in the countryside or in India. He did not know how many of them would come forward to claim their seat.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> After some discussion of this point from several angles it was quite clear that President Yahya refused to deal with any group however cleansed under name of Awami League. He said that he was severely criticized in West Pakistan for having cleared as many as 88 of former AL members to take their seats in next assembly if they came forward.” He <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0820_71_telegram.htm">further said</a> on trial of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman “you can stops worrying because I am not going to execute the man even though he is a traitor.” </blockquote> </li> <li>US Embassy’s <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0820_71_telegram2.htm">telegram confirms</a> that The US ambassador pressured Yahya not to execute Sheikh Mujib. Yahya further stated that because the charge carried the possibility of a death sentence, it was his plan that if such the verdict be, a request for mercy would be made in the Sheikh’s behalf, and he, Yahya, would accept the petition.</li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 20: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/August/3rd%20Week/Aug3_BDoc2.jpg">War of annihilation – Al Hawadith –Lebanon</a> </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> The Pakistani officer stood in one of the small villages of East Pakistan. And told the hungry public gathered around him “My men are wounded and I want some blood, I want volunteers.” Before waiting for a reply, the soldiers rushed forward, selected some young men, threw them on the ground and pricked their arteries. Blood began to flow and continued flowing until the young men died.  </blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0820_71_memorandum1.htm">A meeting</a> in Calcutta with a representative of the “Bangla Desh” Cabinet and a political officer from US consulate:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> –"Any" agreement between Mujib and Yahya will be accept­able if arranged through `proper channels’ i.e. US participa­tion in the arrangements, since “Mujib’s life is more impor­tant than independence”.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> –Bangla Desh “Foreign Minister” (Kh. Mustaque) Ahmed would like to head a delegation to the US to discuss their problems with US offi­cials, although they understand they could not be received “officially.”  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> –There is a split within the Bangla Desh movement between the “rightists” who are in control but want to save them­selves and Mujib through a compromise settlement and “left­wing elements” who will quickly take over if Mujib dies.” </blockquote> </li> <li>Qaiyum reveals <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0820_71_meeting.htm">intel on Bangla Desh contacts with India</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Qaiyum said early August BD Cabinet meetings with GOI offi­cials in New Delhi were mainly concerned with Mukti Bahini (MB) prob­lems. GOI has now agreed MB may purchase arms from abroad and bring them into India. Only foreign arms received to date (other than those taken from Indian army inventory) was consignment of Yugo­slav weapons channeled to MB through GOI. GOI also agreed greatly to step up MB training. In addition to training now given at youth camps and MB centers, Indian army agreed provide additional training for 14,000 men from the western zone and 10,000 from the eastern side of East Bengal each month. From 24,000 total, 5,000 re­cruits monthly will be selected for additional 4 weeks advanced training. Qaiyum said recently India has increased supply of arms for MB. GOI also now manufacturing ammunition for Chinese weapons taken from East Pakistan.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Qaiyum said that he and majority of his colleagues are anti­communists and “rightists.” They want ‘to save themselves,’ and only way they can envisage doing this is to work out compromise in near future.”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 24:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li>Amembassy, Islamabad <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0824_71_contact_represetative.htm">reports to U.S. Secretary of State</a> on contacts With Bangladesh Representatives – President Yahya’s reaction : </li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> 'I asked Yahya if he saw any major obstacle to a select group of GOP members, unpublicized and on neutral ground in a foreign country with a few of the key people for whom Qaiyum indicated he spoke …. Yahya replied he would favour such a development wholeheartedly, asking that in case such a contingency developed, I keep closely in touch with him on this matter generally.' </blockquote> </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0824_71_political_coordination.htm">Telegram from Amconsul, Karachi to Secretary of State</a> on Political coordination:</li> <li><blockquote> “General mood in Karachi is essentially one of xenophobic defiant support of government and its policies as necessary to preserve integrity of Pakistan. Dominant political figure, Z.A. Bhutto, while not basing complaints on regional bias, has made it quite clear that he believes that military is arbitrarily retaining power, dragging its feet in turning over power to elected representatives of people, and in general mismanaging country. Press has almost uniformly endorsed all policies of MLA whether support given in order to remain in print or out of true conviction.  </blockquote> <blockquote> MLA, as well as President, continue to hold considerable public support. Their position has been helped by relative prosperity of this area. To most people, MLA is still considered saviour and preserver of national unity and any criticisms or complaints levelled tend to be directed against “civilian bureaucrats”. On practical level, few see any workable alternative to military rule.  </blockquote> <blockquote> After India, Sheikh Mujib Rahman and his Awami League rank second in order of disapproval. To most the Sheikh is treacherous collaborator of India. To more generous, he willing dupe to wiles and anti-state plots of Indians and anti-state miscreants. Clearance of former Awami Leaguers MNA’s is acknowledged by most as not overly pleasant necessity and sign of magnanimity by MLA. Jamaat-i-Islam leaders have openly criticized MLA for recognizing traitors. </blockquote> <blockquote> Small Bengali community in Karachi is generally silent. In security of discussions with foreigners, they express their resentment over government’s decision of putting the sole blame for the problems of day on Bengalis while ignoring the irresponsible action of Bhutto.”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 25:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0825_71_Contact_Bagnglades_Representatives.htm">Secret Telegram from State Department to Amconsul, Calcutta</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “We will welcome continuing analysis and comments :  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (a) possibilities for negotiation between BD reps and GOP,  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (b) dynamics of possibly troublesome division within BD movement (including Mukti Bahini) over Quote independence vs accommodation UNQUOTE……”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 28: </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0828_71_meeting_Bangladesh_representative.htm">Secret Telegram from Amconsul Calcutta to Secretary of State</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> At meeting with Qaiyum August 27 <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0828_71_letter_Bangladesh_Foreign_Minister.htm">he showed us note</a> from Bangladesh Fonmin urging Qaiyum to expedite his efforts.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> According Qaiyum, (US) Congen is ‘only pipeline’ for BD negotiation ef­fort.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Qaiyum said Mukti Bahini guerrilla activity will be greatly stepped up during next month. He said very large number (15,000, he claimed) guerrillas sent into East Bengal August 10-15. The GOP announcement ‘clearing’ 88 MNA’s has caused difficulty for those cleared, who now vulner­able to charge of collaborating. Many of ‘cleared’ MNA’s are making effort to show loyalty to Awami League by making special trip to Calcutta from East Bengal to pledge allegiance, by joining Mukti Bahini. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> He said special efforts were being made to disrupt maritime traffic to and from East Bengal, and added that effort would be made to destroy Pakistan ship ‘Padma’ currently enroute to Karachi from US carrying consignment of military equipment.”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li> August 30:  </li> </ul> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0830_71_conversation_Jilani.htm">Conversation with retired Maj. – Gen Jilani, NAP ( R )</a>:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> Although the NAP (R) had disagreed with the Foreign Trade position in Mujib’s Six Points, surely acceptance of those six points, or whatever, would have been better than the situation that has resulted in East Pakistan. </blockquote> </li> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0830_71_observation.htm">Some East Pakistan Observations</a>: A trip report by FSO H. Batjer:</li> <li><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The general atmosphere in East Pakistan is one of sustained anxiety, uncertainty and in some cases real fear. Perhaps the most disturbing element in the East Pakistan situation is the public’s total lack of confidence in the future. Personal security and general well being are nonexistent for most people whether they support the idea of a united Pakistan or Bangla Desh. Without reason, citizens are killed, maimed and/or deprived of family and possessions.  </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The Mukti Bahini seeks refuge and food from the sympathetic local Bengalis, but their lives are endangered should the local Peace Committee and/or Army collaborators learn of their support.”</blockquote> </li> </ul> </ul> </div> </div>

August, 1971

  August 1: The “ Concert For Bangla Desh ” is held. Ravi Shankar conceived the idea of the concert to raise awareness and funds t...

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July 1971

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s1600/eng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s640/eng.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr> </tbody></table> <b>July 1:</b><div style="text-align: justify;"> <b></b><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0701_71_indianpm.htm">Letter From President Nixon to Indian Prime Minister Gandhi</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “With regard to the need for actions which will make possible a reversal of the refugee flow, we have continued to emphasize that a return to peace and security in East Pakistan and a viable political settlement are crucial to restoration of a more stable situation in South Asia. Dr. Kissinger will also be talking to President Yahya about this subject and will be delivering a personal message from me.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0701_71_nixon.htm">Letter From President Nixon to Pakistani President Yahya</a>: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “It remains our earnest hope that you and your government will succeed in your efforts to enable these refugees to return to their homes. For our part, we continue to urge the Government of India to exercise restraint, as we have in our discussions with you.”</blockquote> <b>July 2:</b><br /><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0702-71_brief_notes.htm">Intelligence report on the talks between Indian foreign minister Swaran Singh and Russian chairman Kosygin</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> "According to [name not declassified], Kosygin pledged support for the Indian guerrilla army operating in East Bengal, and, upon receipt of a formal request from India, the Soviets promised a guarantee of military protection to enable India to resist pressure from Communist China. Soviet policy makers, in [name not declassified] view, assume a divided Pakistan is no longer politically viable, and that an independent East Bengal is inevitable."</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0702_71_airgram.htm">East Pakistan or Bangladesh : some observation</a>: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Events during the past three months in East Pakistan have touched all levels of East Pakistani society. The resulting bitterness of most Bengalis against West Pakistan, the Army and “Bihari” immigrants is scarcely veiled, runs very deep, and, in the reporting officer’s view, is irreconcilable. Any political “settlement”, short of rehabiliation of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and formation of provincial governments with broad autonomous powers analagous to the Six Point formula under his leadership, will not bridge the hostility which has surfaced as a result of the series of events in East Pakistan.”</blockquote> <b>July 6:</b><br /><ul> <li>The Consulate General in Dacca <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0703_71_memorandum1.htm">reported</a> that there was a serious threat of famine in East Pakistan, and that prospects for averting widespread hunger were not good. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0706_71_bhutto_reaction.htm">Bhutto’s reaction to Yahya’s 28 June speech</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote> “Calling President Yahya’s June 28 speech a “complete fraud” Bhutto revealed he intensely angered and embarrassed by it. Said he had been assured by President only weeks before that speech would define in quite precise terms program for holding elections and transferring large measure of political power to elected representatives of people near future.</blockquote> <blockquote> Also, speech carried President even further away from any possible reconciliation with Awami League.</blockquote> <blockquote> Failure to reach an accommodation with Mujib and Awami League could only have “disastrous” consequences for country since elections evidenced Mujib and his party have overwhelming support in East Pakistan. Bhutto spoke a good deal about Mujib, suggesting that his and Mujib’s relations had been close, that their differences had been minor and could have been easily resolved had it not been for actions of MLA (Martial Law Administrator) which set Bhutto and Mujib at odds.”</blockquote> <b>July 7:</b><br /><ul> <li>Meeting with <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0707_71_memorandum4.htm">Kissinger and Indira Gandhi</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “She said that she does not wish to use force and that she is willing to accept any suggestions that the US may have. She told Dr. Kissinger how serious the situation was and said that India is not wedded to any particular political solution in East Pakistan. She also volunteered that India is not preventing the (6.8 million) refugees from returning to East Pakistan, as the Pakistanis have charged.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Dr. Kissinger asked whether the settlement in East Pakistan must include Awami League leader Mujibur Rahman. The Prime Minister said the settlement must be between East Pakistan and West Pakistan. This is not an Indo-Pakistani problem. India would not have been involved except for the refugees.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0707_71_memorandum3.htm">Kissinger in Delhi with Indian Foreign Minister Singh</a> </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Henry Kissinger’s <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0707_71_editorial.htm">conversations</a> with Defense Minister Jagjivan Ram: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Ram assessed the Chinese military threat to India. Kissinger observed that China might intervene on behalf of Pakistan if there was a war between India and Pakistan. Kissinger assured Ram that the United States would take a grave view of any Chinese move against India.</blockquote> <b>July 8:</b><br /><ul> <li>Kissinger’s <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0708_71_memorandum7.htm">conversation</a> with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Sultan Khan, Economic Adviser to President Yahya M.M. Ahmed etc. In Rawalpindi (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0709_71_memorandum8.htm">His report</a>): </li> </ul> <blockquote> Kissinger met privately with Yahya on July 8 and apparently did not prepare a full record of that meeting.</blockquote> <blockquote> In his memoirs, Kissinger summarized his conversation with Yahya as follows: “I had several conversations with President Yahya and Foreign Secretary Sultan Khan. I urged them to put forward a comprehensive proposal to encourage refugees to return home and to deny India a pretext for going to war. I urged Yahya and his associates to go a step further in the internationalization of relief by admitting the United Nations to supervise its distribution. And I recommended the early appointment of a civilian governor for East Pakistan.” </blockquote> <b>July 9:</b><br /><ul> <li>Nixon <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0709_71_memorandum9.htm">was briefed</a> about Russia’s support to India. He writes “Warn them that if they intervene RN (Richard Nixon) will personally cut off all aid to India.” </li> </ul> <b>July 10:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0710_71_study_prepared.htm">Study prepared in response to NSSM</a></li> </ul> <ul> <li>The developing confrontation between India and Pakistan was one of the subjects <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0710_71_editorial2.htm">discussed by Henry Kissinger and Chinese Premier Chou En-lai</a> during Kissinger’s trip to Peking July 9-11, 1971. Kissinger says:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “We strongly oppose any military action to solve the problems of East Pakistan. And if India takes military action in East Pakistan, we would strongly and publicly disapprove of it.”</blockquote> <b>July 11: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0711_a_regime_thugs_bigots.htm">A regime of thugs and bigots</a>: An account by Murray Sayle (Sunday Times, London-July 11, 1971) after spending a week in the areas from which many thousands of refugees fled:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Some Muslims from their village had come up to see what was going on. The soldiers grabbed four of them and told them to recite something from the Holy Koran.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> They said the four Muslims were terrified but managed to begin “Bismillah Irrahman Irrahim……..” (the opening words of the Koran). They said the soldiers shouted “These are not Muslims! They have been taught to say this to trick us!” They then shot all four.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The entire population of the Benapol reception centre was five forlorn dogs.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> On the refugees issue, it is clear that only a very brave or very foolish refugee would even try to return as things are, and that his welcome would be very doubtful if he did.”</blockquote> <b>July 12: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0712_71_Jagjivan_statement.htm">Indian Defence Minister Jagjivan Ram’s statement in Indian Parliament</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The people of Bangla Desh are manfully resisting the efforts of Pakistani Junta to sup­press freedom and democracy. The terror which has been unleashed on Bangla Desh has stirred the conscience of the world. The bravery and heroism of those engaged in this struggle is widely admired and applauded.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> A significant percentage of the population of Bangla Desh has been forced out and has sought shelter in India. It is clear that the Pakistan Army is engaged in a ruthless genocide of the people of Bangla Desh and is, in the process, mounting a threat to our economy, our society, and on the basic principles which our Constitution enshrines.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0712_71_memo_conversation.htm">Conversation between Kissinger and Indian defence minister</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Dr. Kissinger said that the US is not in favor of secession. We are in favor of a political solution. What we want is a situation that will permit the refugees to return.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The Defense Minister said that he understands the situation in East Bengal. The Punjabis do not regard the Bengalis as of the same stock. The Punjabi rulers have not put faith in the Bengalis.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The Minister continued that Mujibur Rahman never wanted secession. he was a moderating influence.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0713_71_national_security_council.htm">On the status of US Military supply to Pakistan</a></li> </ul> <b>July 14: </b><br /><ul> <li>West Pakistan pursues subjugation of Bengalis (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0714_71_pursue.htm">Sydney H. Schanberg In New York Times</a>):</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Army trucks roll through the half-deserted streets of the capital of East Pakis­tan these days, carrying ‘antistate’ prisoners to work-sites for hard labor. Their heads are shaved and they wear no shoes and no clothes except for shorts-all making escape difficult.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Street designations are being changed to remove all Hindu names as well as those of Bengali Moslem nationalists as part of campaign to stamp out Bengali culture.. Shankari Bazar Road in Dacca is now Tikka Khan Road, after the lieutenant general who is the martial-law governor of East Pakistan and whom most Bengalis call ‘the Butcher.’</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> In addition to the daily troops arrivals, the Government is bringing in wave upon wave of West Pakistanis to replace East Pakistanis in Government jobs. No Bengali is trusted with a responsible or sensitive post; even the man who cuts the grass at the Dacca airport is a non-Bengali.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Since the offensive began the troops have killed countless thousands of Bengalis -foreign diplomats estimate at least 200,000 to 250,000-many in massacres. Al­though the targets were Bangali Moslems and the 10 million Hindus at first, the army is now concentrating on Hindus in what foreign observers characterise as a holy war.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> One missionary said that the army recently killed over 1,000 Hindus in a day in a section of Barisal District, in the south. Another reported that in Sylhet District, in the northeast, ap eace committee, called a meeting of all the residents of one area, ostensibly to work out a re­conciliation. When everyone had gathered troops arrived, picked out the 300 Hindus in the crowd, led them away and shot them.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> In the countryside-for miles at a stretch sometimes-villages have been burned to the ground on both sides of the road. In the cities and towns large areas have been reduced to rubble by heavy gunfire.”</blockquote> <b>July 15:</b><br /><ul> <li>US Acting Secretary John Irwin told the Indian Ambassador to the United States L.K. Jha, that as long as there is guerrilla activity in Bangladesh, Pakistan would not be able to cease fire which would be necessary for returning the millions of refugees. In this reference, he mentioned Indian cross-border help for the guerrillas. He forgets that the guerrilla activity started due to the military genocide. He says that despite the fact that Awami League swept the elections, accomodation of Awami League should not be a pre-condition. (Interesting notion of democracy). He also called Bangla Desh’s need for independence a psychological need.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/July/3rd%20Week/July3_BD1.jpg">Awami MP’s all out war pledge.</a></li> </ul> <b>July 16:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0716_71_memorandum.htm">National Security Council meeting on South Asia:</a></li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Mr. Helms (Director of CIA) noted that the pressures are building in India to go to war. The President (Nixon) said that the situation “smells bad.” The Indians are not to be trusted.”</blockquote> <b>July 17: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/July/3rd%20Week/july3_sd.jpg">Minutes of the meeting of Bangladesh’s exile govt.</a></li> </ul> <b>July 18:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/July/3rd%20Week/July3_WStar.jpg">Pakistan plans to try (Sheikh Mujibur) Rahman: Washington Star</a></li> </ul> <b>July 19:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0719_71_canadian_delelgation.htm">A report of the Canadian parliamentary delegation</a> on July 19 confirms that the number of refugees are from 6.4 million to 6.8 million. They stressed the humanitarian conditions of the refugees and suggested actions. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0719_71_statement.htm">Statement by the Indian Minister of External Affairs in Rajya Sabha</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote> “U.S. military equipment still in the pipeline for delivery to Pakistan may be even more than has been publicly admitted by the U.S. Government.”</blockquote> <b>July 20: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0720_71_reply.htm">Statement of Sardar Swaran Singh, Minister of External Affairs of India in Rajyashava</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “There is a proposal to try Sheikh Mujibur Rahman…Any trial of that nature will be a farce.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> When we talked of giving up military means and trying to find a political settlement, which means a settlement acceptable to the people of Bangla Desh, accep­table to the Awami League, and to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is the undisputed leader of the Awami League and the people of Bangla Desh. Any attempt, therefore, to take any action against Sheikh Mujibur Rahman will be follow-up action on the statement that President Yahya Khan made on 28th June, which has paved the way completely for the emergence of an independent Bangla Desh. Any further action of this type will be a mad action, which will result only in making the freedom-fighters more determined in the pursuit and realisation of their objective namely, freedom for Bangla Desh and for the people of Bangla Desh.” </blockquote> <ul> <li>He <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0721_71_statement2.htm">further adds</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “President Yahya Khan is reported to have said that ‘if India made any attempt to seize any part of East Pakistan’ he will declare war.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> We have no desire ‘to seize any part or Pakistan’. President Yahya Khan is either trying to mislead his people and the world at large or preparing them for an aggression against India by making such unwarranted and baseless statements.”</blockquote> <b>July 22:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0722_71_talk_war.htm">Bangla Desh prime minister Tajuddin Ahmed said</a> that Gen. Yahya Khan’s blustering talk of “war with India” is an indication of his despair, aimed at deflecting the world’s attention from the liberation movement and crea­ting communal and racial disharmony.</li> </ul> <b>July 23: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0715_71_telegram.htm">The US Consulate General in Dacca warned</a> that unless steps were taken to prevent famine in East Pakistan anticipated deaths from mass starvation could approach the catastrophe of the Bengal famine of 1943 in which millions of people died. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0723_71_nation_divided.htm">Peter R Cann writes in Wall street journal, New York</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> He (A doctor) whispers of recent events in this town : the streets littered with bloated and decomposing bodies ; the burning, looting and raping and the continuing terror. “We are afraid to speak the truth. Those who speak the truth are punished, and the only punishment is death.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0723_71_conversation.htm">Memorandum of conversation among Kissinger, Ambassador Hilaly and Harold Saunders</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> After a World Bank team’s visit in Pakistan, One member had said that East Pakistan looked like “Arnheim after the Nazi blitz” and another said that it looked like “a country after a nuclear attack.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0723_71_minutes.htm">Minutes of senior review group meetings on Yahya</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Yahya says he could get 45 to 60 of Awami League MPs and hold by-elections for the seats of all the others. We could either see him disenfranchise 167 out of 169 Assembly members or ask him to do something he might not be able to do. </blockquote> <b>July 27:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0727_71_conversation.htm">Transcript of telephone conversation between President Nixon and Kissinger</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “As Kissinger says that the Indians might attack Pakistan due to its complete helplessness Nixon asserts: ‘After all they have done we just aren’t going to let that happen.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0727_71_rangpur_dinajpur.htm">Telegram by AM consul, Dacca to AM Embassy Islamabad</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Local officials being screened in Rangpur. Few refugees returning but probably no significant outflow either. Bengali Bishop strongly condemns US arms aid to Pakistan.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Rangpur Deputy Commissioner (DC) stated that peace committees in his district not very influential and subject to control of civil administration. Role has changed from period during April/May when situation was more unsettled allowing peace committees more power. They make recommendations concerning distribution of abandoned property and compensation to those whose property was destroyed. Both are reviewed by civil administration before implementation. Peace committees not on committee interviewing returnees from India. They have no political function.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://profile-bengal.com/muldhara71.pdf">Administrative zones set-up decided by the General Administration Department, Govt. of the Peoples, Republic of Bangladesh</a>. </li> </ul> <b>July 28:</b><br /><ul> <li>“Escape from terror”: <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0728_71_escape.htm">a report of the International Rescue Committee’s</a> Emergency Mission to India for Pakistan refugees.</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Preoccupied with the basic needs of refugees, i.e., food, shelter and first-aid, the (Indian) governmental assistance program, though substantial, cannot cope with the multi–faceted organizational and financial needs described in the foregoing pages. Nor can it be expected to take care of relief payments to the substantial number of artists, writers, journalists, scientists and similar categories of refugees who have found asylum in India. They have depended thus far on the help of their Indian colleagues. Some of them face starvation.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0728_71_conversation.htm">Conversation</a> Among President Nixon, the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger), and the Ambassador to Pakistan (Farland), Washington:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Yahya told me that they had pinpointed 29 camps within India where guerrillas were being trained. Now I hate to tell you this, Mr. President, but the guerrilla threat is growing by leaps and bounds. They’re averaging 18 Pakistanis a day now; they are averaging two bridges a day. Killing that many.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0728_71_statement_fullbright.htm">Statement by Senator J. W. Fulbright in the U. S. Senate</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The situation in East Pakistan is intolerable, as is a foreign policy which in practice reinforces the status quo there. The United States should instead use all the influence, limited though it may be, which it can bring to bear. In this connection, steps should be taken to insure that military goods, including spare parts, are not shipped to Pakistan and the offer of F-104′s B-57′s patrol aircraft, and armoured personnel carriers made last fall should be immediately resigned Economic assistance should be suspended until the Pakistanis, both East and West, agree upon a satisfactory political solution and until steps are taken to repatriate the refugees now in India.”</blockquote> <b>July 29: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/July/4th%20Week/July4_BDoc.jpg">Bhasani: Soverign Bangladesh is the aim</a></li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0729_71_memorandum_kissinger.htm">Memorandum for Mr. Henry A. Kissinger from Theodore Eliot on India/Pakistan</a></li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “A July 23 press report, quoting the West Bengal Health Services Di­rector, warned that 300,000 refugee children were on the verge of death from starvation.”</blockquote> <b>July 30: </b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0730_minutes.htm">Minutes of Senior Review Group meeting on South Asia</a>: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: Over any two or three year period, 75,000 Punjabi cannot govern 75 million Bengalis. </blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0730_memo.htm">Memorandum of conversation among Farland, Kissinger and Saunders</a>: Ambassador Farland agreed that the possibility of war is imminent.</li> </ul> <b>July 31:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0731_71_warns.htm">Bangla Desh Foreign Minister Khandaker Moshtaque Ahmed warns</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Attempts to make “Bangla Desh” an India-Pakistan issue is a “wrong attitude and cannot bring peace in this part of the world”.</blockquote> </div> </div>

July 1971

July 1: Letter From President Nixon to Indian Prime Minister Gandhi : “With regard to the need for actions which will make possibl...

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June 1971

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s1600/eng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrncU3usYQL66ikWMd-lGyak37cutkGUCDoioITEIu9gK5zbU935vJWjG_1qlVygbJvth1mbAOO_b0wpNm6sUwuqv78m8r7axznBxvoQ5YV3WU75Mmbo2zbswhMlNDk_1BRW6lUwjqfo/s640/eng.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr> </tbody></table> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b> June 2:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/1st%20Week/june1_bd.jpg">Interview of Tajuddin in All India Radio</a> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/1st%20Week/june1_me.jpg">Bengal Rebel Send UN evidence on terror attack on Dacca</a> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/1st%20Week/june1_wp.jpg">Rebel Bengali leaders (3 Awami League leaders) meet with Indira Gandhi.</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>June 3:</b><br /><ul> <li>US ambassador to India, Keating <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0603_71_memorandum1.htm">suggested Kissinger</a> that military assistance to Pakistan was out of the question since they were still killing in East Pakistan and when refugees were still pouring into India. Kissinger informed him that the President would uphold the “One Time Exception” of arms sales to Pakistan.</li> </ul> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>June 4:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0604_conversation_nixon_kissinger.htm">Conversation between Nixon and Kissinger</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: Look, even apart from the Chinese thing, I wouldn’t do that to help the Indians, the Indians are no goddamn good. Now Keating, like every Ambassador who goes over there, goes over there and gets sucked in. He now thinks the—</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: Those sons-of-bitches, who never have lifted a finger for us, why should we get involved in the morass of East Pakistan? All the more so, I quite agree with the point, if East Pakistan becomes independent, it is going to become a cesspool. It’s going be 100 million people, they have the lowest standard of living in Asia—</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: Yeah.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: No resources. They’re going to become a ripe field for Communist infiltration. And then they’re going to bring pressure on India because of West Bengal. So that the Indians in their usual idiotic way are playing for little stakes, unless they have in the back of their minds that they could turn East Pakistan into a sort of protectorate that they could control from Calcutta. That they may have in the back of their mind.”</blockquote> <b>June 11:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0611_71_memorandum4.htm">Lunch Conversation Between Indian Ambassador Jha and Mr. Kissinger</a> -The purpose of the conversation was to prepare for the meeting of Foreign Minister Singh and also to prevent Indian military action against Pakistan while the Chinese channel was being maintained. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0611_71_telegram2.htm">Telegram from the embassy in India to the Department of State</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The number of refugees is now 5.4 million and that rate of flow is increasing. This should be evidence enough that no matter what noises President Yahya may make about restoration of normalcy, he has not yet done anything to effectively impede reign of terror and brutality of Pakistan army, the root cause of the refugee exodus. I most strongly recommend that the time is overdue for us to utilize all leverage available to pressure the GOP into halting without further delay the terror and repression by the army in the east wing.</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/3rd%20Week/NY%20Protest.htm">Rally in New York in support for the cause of Bangladesh.</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>June 13:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0613_71_genocide.htm">Genocide in Bangladesh</a>: – Anthony Mascarenhas, former Assistant Editor, Morning News, Karachi (published in Sunday Times, London):</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> He was 24 years old, a slight man surrounded by soldiers. He was trembling, because he was about to be shot.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Normally we would have killed him as he ran,” I was informed chattily by Major Rathore, the G-2 Ops. of the 9th Division, as we stood on the out­skirts of a tiny village near Mudafarganj, about 20 miles south of Comilla. “But we are checking him out for your sake. You are new here and I see you have a squeamish stomach.”</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Why kill him?” I asked with mounting concern.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Because he might be a Hindu or he might be a rebel, perhaps a student or an Awami Leaguer. They know we are sorting them out and they betray themselves by running.”</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “But why are you killing them? And why pick on the Hindus?” I persisted.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Must I remind you,” Rathore said severely, “how they have tried to des­troy Pakistan? Now under the cover of the fighting we have an excellent oppor­tunity of finishing them off.”</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Of course,” he added hastily, “we are only killing the Hindu men. We are soldiers, not cowards like the rebels. They kill our women and children.”</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The pogrom’s victims are not only the Hindus of East Bengal-who constitute about 10 per cent of the 75 million population-but also many thousands of Bengali Muslims.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/2nd%20week/June2_BD1.jpg">Tajuddin’s appeal for aid, recognition</a>.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/2nd%20week/june2_sd.jpg">Tajuddin’s appeal to the world for Sheikh Mujib’s safety.</a></li> </ul> <b>June 15:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0615_conversation_nixon_kissinger_keating.htm">Conversation Among President Nixon, the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger), and the Ambassador to India</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “In the context of briefing Nixon in advance of his meeting with the Indian Foreign Minister, Keating painted a grim picture of the situation in East Pakistan. He suggested that Nixon could put pressure on Pakistan to stop what he described as genocide in East Pakistan by withholding economic assistance. Keating pointed to the flood of five million refugees into India and said that the problem was growing at a rate of 150,000 a day. The strain on India was tremendous, and Keating said that the situation was further inflamed by what he described as a deliberate policy by Pakistan to drive out or kill the Hindus in East Pakistan. His assessment of the Indian response to the problem was that India wanted the killing stopped and a climate created in East Pakistan which would allow the refugees to return to their homes. In his view, India had adopted a moderate position and was seeking a political solution to the building crisis. Keating did not believe a political settlement would emerge until Yahya Kahn’s government was prepared to deal with the Awami League leaders who had been outlawed.” (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0615_71_editorial2.htm">Summary</a>)</blockquote> <b>June 16:</b><br /><ul> <li>President Nixon <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0616_conversation_nixon_kissinger_singh_sisco.htm">met at the White House with Indian Foreign Minister Swaran Singh</a>. Ambassadors Jha and Keating were also present, as were Henry Kissinger and Joseph Sisco. Nixon suggested quiet diplomacy by offering aid for the refugee instead of putting pressure on Yahya (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0616_71_editorial3.htm">Details</a>).</li> </ul> <b>June 18:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0618_71_letter.htm">Letter from Pakistani President Yahya to President Nixon</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “It is most unfortunate that this humanitarian question should be cynically turned into political propaganda by India, and that the Indian Government should use the problem of the displaced persons, as an instrument of pressure on Pakistan to impose a political government of Indian choice in East Pakistan. No government could yield to such blackmail.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/2nd%20week/WB%20Report.htm">World Bank report after a visit by a delegation to East Pakistan</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The situation is far from normal. The general sense of fear and lack of confidence on the part of most of the population.</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/3rd%20Week/June3_SD1.jpg">Tajuddin on political solution of the crisis</a>.</li> </ul> <b>June 19:</b><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/3rd%20Week/June3_SD2.jpg">Protests in Hyde Park London against Pakistani atrocities</a>.</li> </ul> <b>June 22:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0622_71_telegram4.htm">Telegram from the Department of State to the embassy in Pakistan</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “We have received through international air mail a letter mailed from Berlin without return address which purported to ask for recognition of the ‘People’s Republic of Bangladesh’. It would be inappropriate for us to take any action with respect to it since we consider the territory of East Pakistan to be part of the State of Pakistan.”</blockquote> <b>June 23:</b><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/4th%20Week/June4_SD3.jpg">Acting President Syed Nazrul Islam to US- don’t contribute to genocide.</a></li> </ul> <b>June 25:</b><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0625_71_memorandum6.htm">Memorandum</a> from the President’s Deputy Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Haig) to President Nixon:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “On June 22 The New York Times reported that two Pakistani freighters were preparing to sail from New York with cargos of military equipment for Pakistan. Ambassador Jha called on Under Secretary Irwin on the same day to warn that if the report were true, the shipment of arms to Pakistan would have an unfortunate impact upon relations between the United States and India.”</blockquote> <b>June 26: </b><br /><ul> <li>East Pakistan Refugees: <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0626_71_telegram5.htm">Discussions with Sadruddin</a> of UNHCR who had pro Pakistan views.</li> </ul> <b>June 28:</b><br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0628_71_letter2.htm">Letter from Pakistani President Yahya to US President Nixon</a>: Yahya was troubled by media reports of Western governments (like UK) enforcing aid embargo on Pakistan to pressure a political settlement. All these developments have led to a strong and widespread public reaction in Pakistan. He requested Nixon to “prevent the present ambiguity and misunderstanding from becoming a source of further strains in Pakistan’s relations with the Western world.” </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Yahya’s <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0630_71_memorandum8.htm">public address to the nation</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote> Pakistan’s new political leaders would not include any representatives of the outlawed Awami League of East Pakistan under that party label. While reiterating the illegal status of the League, Yahya announced that Awami League members-elect of the national and provincial assemblies who had not disqualified themselves by secessionist activities would be eligible to participate in those bodies. Those Awami Leaguers who had disqualified themselves would be replaced through by-elections to take place this fall.</blockquote> <blockquote> Banning Awami League made political accommodation impossible. The disqualification of many of the 440 Awami League members-elect and its probable unacceptability to most of the others means that most of those seats would have to be filled through by-elections in East Pakistan.</blockquote> <ul> <li>US president Nixon <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0628_71_memorandum8.htm">refused a proposal</a> for arms embargo on Pakistan. </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0628_71_telegram6.htm">Telegram from the embassy in Pakistan</a> to the US Department of State regarding the subject of East Pakistan Refugees: Special Assistant Kellogg’s Discussion with Pres. Yahya: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Yahya launched into bitter attack on PM Gandhi and her government. He referred to statements in which Mrs. Gandhi reported to have said that refugees can’t go back. ‘Indian Government says they won’t let them go back.’ Some of the few refugees who have trickled back, he said, show wounds and say they were beaten up on main roads in India leading back to Pakistan. Kellogg interjected that none of Indian officials with whom he had spoken had indicated anything other than that India wanted refugees to return to East Pakistan as soon as possible. Kellogg noted enormous economic, religious, political and social pressures on India resulting from refugee influx, and GOI estimated that $400 million would be required to care for refugees over six-month period.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kellogg repeated that none of Indian officials with whom he had spoken had said they wanted refugees to remain; nor had any referred to desire to see independent East Pakistan; “Bangla Desh” was never once mentioned to him. Meanwhile, if persons were continuing to leave East Pakistan and not returning in any appreciable numbers, Kellogg said, it would appear that they continued to be motivated by fear which caused them to flee in first place.”</blockquote> <b>June 29:</b><br /><ul> <li>US Dept. of State Report: <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0629_71_scenario_action.pdf">Scenario for action in Indo-Pakistan crisis</a> (pdf file) </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0629_71_transcript.htm">Telephone conversation</a> between the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger) and the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs (Sisco) </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/4th%20Week/June4_BD1.jpg">Bhasani – No compromise with Yahya on independence.</a> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/4th%20Week/June4_BD2.jpg">Bangladesh Home Minsiter’s reaction on Yahya’s plans for holding by-election.</a></li> </ul> <b>June 30:</b> <br /><ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/June/4th%20Week/June4_SD1.jpg">Acting President Syed Nazrul Islam’s address – Yahya will get a reply on the battlefield.</a></li> </ul> </div> </div>

June 1971

   June 2: Interview of Tajuddin in All India Radio Bengal Rebel Send UN evidence on terror attack on Dacca Rebel Bengali lea...

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May 1971

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /> <b>May 3:</b><br /> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0503_letter_cp_ep.htm">Letter of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of East Pakistan</a> (Bangla Desh) on the situation in Bangladesh:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “A just struggle: </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (i) The present struggle of the people of Bangla Desh is the culmination of their struggle for democracy and autonomy which they were conducting since 1948 against the reactionary ruling classes which had ruthlessly suppressed democracy and national rights of the various nationalities. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (ii) The people of Bangla Desh and their leaders had never wanted the secession of East Pakistan. But they had always tried to establish their democratic and national rights through democratic struggles and through the election held in 1970. Even after a sweeping victory in the election and securing an absolute majority in the National Assembly, the Awami League and its Chief Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had wanted nothing more than a constitution based on the six-point programme. Sheikh Mujib had also repeatedly tried to come to a political settlement with the ruling military junta. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (iii) But it was the ruling military junta, which had earlier held the election but had ultimately refused to transfer power to the elected representatives of the people, that launched a treacherous armed attack against the people. In fact, the military junta had no intention of transferring power. The Yahya-Mujib talks, etc., were nothing but ruse by the junta to gain time for preparation of the armed attack.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> It was only after this armed attack by the ruling military junta that the popular struggle for democracy and autonomy had turned into an armed battle for the liberation of our motherland. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (iv) This liberation battle is fundamentally a battle for the just right of self-determina­tion of the 75-million Bengalis waged against the reactionary ruling classes composed of the monopolists and feudalists who are backed and armed by the imperialists, especially the U.S. imperialists. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (v) In no case it is a struggle against the people of West Pakistan. Rather this liberation struggle of Bangla Desh against the reactionary ruling classes which are also suppressing and oppressing the people of West Pakistan will help their struggle for democracy and autonomy. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> (vi) The liberation struggle is being carried on by the Mukti Fouz (Liberation Army) and the people of Bangla Desh. Therefore, the propaganda by the ruling military junta of Pakistan that it is an "India-inspired struggle", "by Indian armed intruders" and that "India is interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan", etc., is nothing but a canard. Similarly, the propaganda by some pro-Peking groups that this liberation struggle is inspired by the imperialists is a dire falsehood.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Judging all the above facts, all democrats of the world should be fully convinced that the present struggle for the liberation of our motherland is a just struggle against native and foreign reactionaries who are enemies of humanity and peace. The defeat of these reactionaries in Bangla Desh will strengthen the forces of democracy and peace in the South-east Asia region."</blockquote> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>May 4:</b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0504_71_telgram.htm">Telegram from the Embassy in India to the Department of State</a> on the subject of alleged Indian support to Freedom Fighters and other observations:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Foreign Secretary Kaul referred me to the reports of Frank Moraes in the Indian Express as well as to those of British and American journalists regarding the organization and training of the liberation forces inside East Pakistan. Kaul said the refugees were in no state to fight. They were hungry, sick and at times almost naked.”</blockquote> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>May 5: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0505_71_contingencystudy.htm">Memorandum from The Acting Secretary to Christopher Van Hollen</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “In the last ten days we have received through clandestine reports and journalists’ accounts increasing evidence of Indian involvement with the Bengali separatists and of India’s own contingency planning in the event of war. The Indian Government has reinforced Border Security Force units and has moved regular Indian Army units to within three kilometers of the border. The BSF has established camps at which 2,000 Bengalis are reportedly receiving training in guerilla and sabotage tactics. Limited quantities of arms and ammunition have been provided to the Bengali separatists and some Indian forces have infiltrated into East Bengal to provide assistance and training to the separatists.”</blockquote> <b>May 7: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0507_71_letter_yahya.htm">Letter From President Nixon to Pakistani President Yahya</a> expressing concern but using soft tone.</li> </ul> <b>May 10: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0510_71_converse2.htm">A conversation</a> among economic advisor to President Yahya Khan (M.M. Ahmed), Assistant to the President (Kissinger), Ambassador of Pakistan(Agha Hilaly), NSC staff (Harold H. Saunders). </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Nixon <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0510_71_converse3.htm">declared to a Pakistani delegation</a> that “Yahya is a good friend.” Rather than express concern over the ongoing brutal military repression, Nixon explained that he “understands the anguish of the decisions which [Yahya] had to make.” He said that the US is not going to become involved.</li> </ul> <b>May 13:</b><br /> <ul> <li>The Indian Government requested that the United States make available four C-130 transport aircraft and the crews to fly them to help ferry refugees from East Pakistan from the over-burdened state of Tripura to Assam (<a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0513_71_editorial.htm">Telegram 7325 from New Delhi</a>) </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0513_71_letter_indianpm.htm">Letter from Indian Prime Minister Gandhi to President Nixon</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Until the 12th May, 1971, the number of fugitives who were registered on their crossing the border into India was 2,328,507. We believe that there is a fair number who have avoided registration. Refugees still continue to pour in at the rate of about fifty thousand a day. We are doing our utmost to look after them. But there is a limit to our capacity and resources. Apparently, Pakistan is trying to solve its internal problems by cutting down the size of its population in East Bengal and changing its communal composition through an organised and selective programme of eviction; but it is India that has to take the brunt of this. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> It is our earnest hope that the Government of the United States of America will impress upon the rulers of Pakistan that they owe a duty towards their own citizens whom they have treated so callously and forced to seek refuge in a foreign country.”</blockquote> <b>May 14:</b><br /> <ul> <li>The Embassy in Islamabad warned that Pakistan would react unfavorably to a United States decision to participate in an airlift of East Pakistani refugees.  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>(The Department of State announced on June 12 that the United States would participate in the airlift. The airlift exercise, which was code-named Bonny Jack, was terminated on July 14. <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0513_71_editorial.htm">source</a>)</li> </ul> <b>May 17: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0517_71_assistance.htm">Memorandum to Henry A. Kissinger</a> about halting military assistance to Pakistan. Kissinger responded with a handwritten comment in the margin that reads: “Al-See me. The end result of this will be to terminate the relationship.”</li> </ul> <b>May 18: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0518_71_researchstudy.htm">A research study on Pakistan</a> by Bureau of Intelligence and Research.</li> </ul> <b>May 20: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/May/3rd%20Week%20May/May3_SD1971.jpg">Interview with Bangladesh home Minister A.H.M. Kamaruzzaman</a>.</li> </ul> <b>May 21: </b><br /> <ul> <li>Dr. Kissinger <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0521_71_memorandum.htm">told Indian Ambassador Jha</a> “you can’t go to war over refugees.”</li> </ul> <b>May 23: </b><br /> <ul> <li>President Yahya <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0522_71_telegram2.htm">said that</a> he tended to disagree with GOI’s current estimate that there were now over two and one-half million East Pakistani refugees in India, but that the GOP was aware of the fact that a substantial number of people had crossed the border and that the problem was both real and substantial.</li> </ul> <b>May 24: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0524pm_statement_loksabha.htm">Indira Gandhi’s statement</a> in Lok Sabha on the situation in Bangla Desh:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “It is mis­chievous to suggest that India has had anything to do with what happened in Bangla Desh. This is an insult to the aspirations and spontaneous sacrifices of the people of Bangla Desh, and a calculated attempt by the rulers of Pakistan to make India a scapegoat for their own misdeeds. It is also a crude attempt to deceive the world community. The world press has seen through Pakistan’s decep­tion. The majority of these so-called Indian infiltrators are women, children and the aged.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> We are proud of our tradition of tolerance. Our nation, our people are dedicated to peace and are not given to talking in terms of war or threat of war.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> We are convinced that there can be no military solution to the problem of East Bengal. A political solution must be brought about by those who have the power to do so.”</blockquote> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0524_71_letter_yahya.htm">Letter from President Yahya to President Nixon</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> “The secessionist elements in East Pakistan were encouraged and assisted by India. The Indian Parliament, in an unprecedented move, officially extended sympathy and support to these elements. The question of “recognising” the rebellious movement has also been under consideration of the Indian Government. Infiltrators and saboteurs from across the border have violated our territory and indulged in activities to dislocate and destroy East Pakistan’s economic and industrial life, including the vital communications system. </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> It is most unfortunate that due to disturbed conditions and for other reasons, a large number of people left their homes in East Pakistan and crossed into India. I have, therefore, in a public statement urged the law abiding citizens of East Pakistan who were compelled to migrate, to return to their homes and resume their normal duties. I am afraid, however, that I cannot extend a welcome to those persons who committed murders, indulged in rape and arson, destroyed private and public properties and looted Government treasuries and food stores. No Government can condone such crimes against the people and the State.”</blockquote> <b>May 25: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/May/4th%20Week%20May/Radio%20Started.htm">50KW Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendro (Independent Bangladesh radio) opened in Baliganj, Kolkata by Bangla Desh PM Tajuddin</a></li> </ul> <b>May 26: </b><br /> <ul> <li>The State Department gave a <a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0525_71_memorandum.htm">memorandum to President Nixon</a> expressing fears of an imminent Indo-Pak war. The memorandum noted 3 points that would be the cause of the war.</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> 1. Continued military repression in the East (Bangladesh), economic dislocation and lack of political accomodation in East Pakistan (Bangladesh)</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> 2. The very heavy flow of refugees to India (over three million according to the Indians) which is imposing a great burden to India.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> 3. And the Indian cross-border support to Bengali guerrillas (Mukti Bahinis).</blockquote> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0526_71_decision.htm">India Government decision on Pakistan crisis</a>: The following decisions were made: </li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> a. Defer recognition of Bangla Dash for the immediate future.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> b. Maintain constant military readiness.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> c. Take every diplomatic step to force the major powers to take action to force the GOP to atop the refugee flow and to repatriate those who have crossed into India, including hints that Mia might bke unilateral military action.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> d. Seek financial aid from all sources to temporarily support the refugees. </blockquote> <ul> <li>They also decided to release off-the-record press comments that India is reaching the point where some sort of action, possibly military, was possible if there is not immediate relief for the refugee problem.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0526_conversation.htm">Conversation between Nixon and Kissinger</a>:</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: But we don’t say anything against Yahya? </blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: No, no. You just say you hope the refugees will soon be able to go back to East Pakistan. He will then reply to you that’s exactly what he wants. I’ve got it all arranged with the—</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: Good. Go ahead.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: —Embassy. Then you can take credit. You can tell the Indians to pipe down—</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: Yeah.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: And we’ll keep Yahya happy.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: The Indians need—what they need really is a—</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Kissinger: They’re such bastards.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> Nixon: A mass famine. But they aren’t going to get that. We’re going to feed them—a new kind of wheat. But if they’re not going to have a famine the last thing they need is another war. Let the goddamn Indians fight a war [unclear].</blockquote> <b>May 27:</b><br /> <br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0527_71_east_bengal_tragedy.htm">The East Bengal tragedy</a>: (THE GUARDIAN, London)</li> </ul> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> "The total picture of what has been happening in East Bengal is clear to us without any shadow of doubt. There are scores of survivors of firing-squad line-ups. Hundreds of wit­nesses to the machine-gunning of political leaders, prefessors, doctors, teachers and students. Villages have been surrounded, at any time of day or night, and the frigh­tened villagers have fled where they could, or been slaughtered where they have been found. or enticed out to the fields and mown down in heaps. Women have been raped, girls carried off to barracks, unarmed peasants battered or bayoneted by the thousands.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> The pattern, after seven weeks, is still the same. Even the least credible stories, of babies thrown up to be caught on bayonets, of women stripped and bayoneted vertically, or of children sliced up like meat, are credible not only because they are told by so many people, but because they are told by people without sufficient sophistication to make up such stories for political motives. We saw the amputation of a mother’s arm and a child’s foot. These were too far from the border, and gangrene developed from their bullet-wounds. Many saw their daughters raped and the heads of their children smashed in. Some watched their husbands, sons, and grandsons tied up at the wrists and shot in more selective male elimination.</blockquote> <blockquote class="tr_bq"> About 400 were killed at Chaudanga while on their way to India, surroun­ded and massacred. Why? Lest they take tales to India? Or because choosing a certain democratic system under Sheikh Mujib means forfeiting the right to live in any country?"</blockquote> <b>May 28:</b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.profile-of-bengal.com/p-b/www.profile-bengal.com/0528_71_letter_nixon.htm">Letter from President Nixon to Pakistani President Yahya</a> talks about humanitarian aids not about the Pak atrocities.</li> </ul> <b>May 29:</b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/May/4th%20Week%20May/May4_SD1971.jpg">Interview with PM Tajuddin Ahmed</a></li> </ul> <b>May 30: </b><br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.nybangla.com/Weekly%201971/May/4th%20Week%20May/May4a_SD1971.jpg">Bangladesh Home Minister reacts on President Yahya’s speech</a></li> </ul> </div> </div>

May 1971

May 3: Letter of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of East Pakistan (Bangla Desh) on the situation in Bangladesh: “A ju...

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