793B.00/11–1451: Telegram
The Consul General at Calcutta (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
248. Re Contel 204, November 11 to Delhi rptd Dept as 243.1 Gibson delivered message (Deptel 959, November 7 and Embtel 148, November 10).2 … [names deleted] plan to proceed Lhasa in about 2 weeks with msg and will attempt persuade DL leave Tib. Both seem confident DL’s willingness come but foresee great difficulties and while realizing this is primarily DL’s problem feel he may be unable escape without assistance. They asked if US could send one or more planes to vicinity Lhasa. They believe exit by horse impossible in view length of journey and presence Chi Commie troops along route in some strength. However, if plane operation not feasible, (and ConGen aware of serious difficulties involved) they believe possibly DL can enlist support of monks who, if armed, could perhaps overcome Chi in Lhasa (reported numbering 3000) and permit DL withdraw to point where planes could evacuate him and retinue. Latter alternative would require arms, supplies and possibly leadership from USA. [Names deleted] hope before departing to receive from ConGen some detailed info re possibility our assistance in flight from Lhasa as well as more info our plans for assisting DL after leaving Tibet. … Gibson emphasized implementation any plans would require assurance DL’s intention leave Tib, denounce Sino-Tib agreement and continue fight against Commies and would also require precise communications, planning and timing. ConGen believes if DL is persuaded leave Tib considerable US advice and aid will be required.
Would appreciate indication Dept’s and Emb’s views. We realize foregoing raises great many problems but this is probably last chance to get DL out. Today’s press states Chi troops have reached Gyantse. [Page 1848] Dept may however wish at least take advantage this opportunity get ltr from Takster to DL . . . .
Desp fols.3
- Not printed.↩
- Telegram 959 to New Delhi, November 7, 1951, not printed, instructed that an attempt should be made to forward another message to the Dalai Lama. The letter shown to the Tibetan official should be used as the basis for the message, with the additional point that the Embassy had recently learned from the Indian Government that the latter was willing to grant asylum or transit privilege if the Dalai Lama requested (793B.00/11–651). Telegram 148 from New Delhi to Calcutta, November 10, 1951, not printed, expanded on these instructions (Calcutta Post Files: Lot 56 F 55).↩
- Despatch 233 from Calcutta, November 15, 1951, not printed.↩