C. Dasgupta is a highly reputed former Indian Foreign Service Officer. He has had a highly distinguished career including two very important assignments - Ambassador to China (1993-93) and EU (1996-2000). 'War and Diplomacy in Kashmir (1947-48)' is a work of meticulous research and understanding of the Geo-politics of the 1947-48. We often blame Pundit Nehru for the Kashmir mess without understanding the intricacies and complexities of the Kashmir problem. This book provides indepth details about the military leadership of the subcontinent and the role played by the British High Commissioners based in India and Pakistan and the British Ministers based in Britain and UN.
The first Chief of Indian Army (after Independence), General Rob Lockhart, was not serious about his responsibilites towards India, he was loyal only to the British interests. He betrayed the cause of India and that cost India some vital advantage in Kashmir. This quisling had the prior information about the tribal invasion of Kashmir but he remained silent. He was sacked by Pundit Nehru when he became aware of his betrayal. Lord Mountbatten also played his part in defending British interests in the subcontinent instead of defending Indian interests. It was so sad to learn that the very important Defence Committee of the Indian cabinet was headed by Lord Mountbatten instead of Indian PM. Lord Mountbatten effectively used this position to slow and check Indian advances in Jammu and Kashmir. This effectively gave serious edge to Pakistan. Indian leadership tried hard to expel invaders from Jammu and Kahsmir but was betrayed at every occasion by the British officials of Independent India.
Britain was more interested in securing the good will of Muslim world which she thought was getting hostile to her in the wake of Palestine crisis. The second important aspect of Britain tilt towards Pakistan was the location of Pakistan with respect to USSR and oil deposits of middle east. Britain and her allies effectively negated India's position in the UN Security Council though USA to a certain extent remained neutral and China bit pro India. This book is a must read book.
In the last i would like to pay my respects to our great soldiers and people of Kashmir who fought the invaders and sacrificed their everything. We shall never forget their sacrifices and the sacrifice of Brigadier Rajinder Singh (the savior of Kashmir), Lt. Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai (who secured the valley), General Cariappa and General Thimayya who led the Indian counter attack, Major Somnath Sharma who sacrificed his life defending Kashmir and numerous others.
Highly Recommended (8/10)
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