795.00/7—1452: Telegram

The Ambassador in India (Bowles) to the Department of State1

top secret
niact

170. This morning in discussions with Pillai I expressed disappointment over apparent unwillingness Commies at Panmunjom to discuss second approach to prisoner question suggested to Panikkar by Chi Comm Foreign Office in Peking. I stated that instead of exploring with us various methods of assuring uninfluenced neutral screening of prisoners [Page 408] who express unwillingness return, Commies still determined all Chinese must be sent back regardless their wishes.

Pillai said this bears out msg received from Peking Saturday2 which reported that under persistent further questioning by GOI Chargé d’ Affaires, Chi Foreign Office without explanation had reversed completely its position on second approach previously suggested to Panikkar.

As result,… Nehru called mtg Sunday a.m., at which he and Panikkar were present. Nehru expressed his extreme displeasure and embarrassment, asked Panikkar for explanation. Panikkar stated that Chou En-lai had evidently been reversed by Mao Tse-tung.

Pillai stated GOI disturbed and annoyed but not discouraged; that still felt Comm Chi want truce; maybe they determined exhaust all possibilities first approach before taking up second. I agreed this possible, but suggested flatness Commie statements would make it increasingly difficult for them modify their position in future even though might wish do so.

Pillai expressed hope of his govt we would continue maintain patience and continue refrain from any statement which might lessen whatever hope may still exist.

Bowles
  1. This telegram was repeated to London.
  2. July 12.