By Rohit Mullick
Chandigarh, November 7 – Security analyst Brahma Chellaney is angry, at the way our leaders have tackled China. Right from the days of Jawaharlal Nehru. And the way the great leader ended the debate with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
‘‘Whatever may be the ultimate fate of Tibet in relation to China, I think there is practically no chance of any military danger in Tibet. Geographically, this is very difficult and practically it would be a very foolish adventure. If India is to be influenced or an attempt made to bring pressure on her, Tibet is not the route for her. I do not think there is any necessity for our Defence Ministry or any part of it, to consider possible repercussions on the India-Tibetan front. The event is remote and may not arise at all.’’
The note was recorded on July 7 1949 by Nehru himself and was a top secret. But no more. It got into the hands of Chellaney.
Chellaney, who was in city to attend a seminar, told Newsline that what Nehru credulously saw as a foolish adventure was mounted within months by the Chinese Communists.
‘‘Tibet was annexed and a new northern frontier was opened. It is still troubling us,’’ said Chellaney. According to him, all Indian prime ministers, with the exception of Indira Gandhi, have been poor strategists.
Stating that personalities more than institutions have shaped our foreign policy, he added there is lack of realistic goals, strategies and tactics as well as timely exploitation of opportunities.
‘‘Look at China. They know how to be ruthless and pragmatic. They talk soft and do their work softly. On the contrary, our leaders are more into shouting slogans and doing nothing. They say aar paar ki ladai ladenge and do nothing,’’ said Chellaney.
