SINGH ACCUSES YAHYA KHAN OF KEEPING PAKISTAN UNDER MILITARY CONTROL
LONDON.- Indian Foreign Minister Swaran Singh claimed Monday night Pakistan’s President Yahya Khan was apparently determined to keep his conuntry under millitary control for a very, “very long period.”
In a British Broadcasting Corporation television interview recorded in India and televised here, the Minister spoke of the disappointment of the Bangla Desh supporters.
“They now feel convinced that the military regime does not at all appear to be serious to transfer power to the elected representatives, and they want to continue the military hold over the people of Bangla Desh,” he said.
The attitude of President Yahya Khan seemed to be completely negative, the Indian Minister said.
“… It appears that he is determined to keep under military control both the wings of Pakistan for a very, very long period.”
Singh added that the international community should exert all possible presure on the military rulers of Pakistan “so that they are compelled to, in their own interest, to take steps which should enable these refugees to go back to their own homes and hearths.”
Pakistani refugees had sought and been given shelter but there was no question of sanctuary, the Minister said.
“… we have given them despite from atrocity because they have sought shelter and refuge here and to escape bullets they have come here.”
Asked whether the pressures arising from whole situation had brought India closer to war. Singh replied : “I don’t think so but they do definitely bring us to the end of our patience.” . …”situation arises when patience has a limit and I think that limit is fast being reached.”
Reference : The Djakarta Times, 08.07.1971