‘We do recognize his worth. But does that mean we can’t point out his mistakes? We must speak the truth. He has gone to London, that’s alright. But after that he will be visiting a few countries in Asia and Africa and will return only after two weeks. It is his responsibility to return to India as early as possible and take action against China. Then only will we say he is a leader.’

‘And our Defence Minister, Krishna Menon? He, too, has gone to London at this crucial time. He says, “There is no cause for worry,” otherwise he would not have gone to London! Why should they panic? You live in comfort in Delhi. It will take many days for the Chinese Army to reach Delhi after crossing the NEFA border. What is there for you to worry about? If the Chinese attack, the people of Assam will be in danger. Our people will be killed. And what does Krishna Menon say? “Necessary steps have been taken.” God only knows what kind of necessary steps he is referring to.’

‘We see him visiting foreign countries most of the time. If both the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister stay outside the country in this time of crisis, how will things work out? Forget about that; tell me, what is our Assam government doing? Our Chief Minister is almost silent on this matter, apart from sending out a few weak press releases. How will he be able to impel the central government to take action against the invaders like this?’

‘That’s why we need a leader and a Member of Parliament like Hem Baruah. He said right to Nehru’s face that the Chinese invasion was a national indignity for us. The sooner Nehru realizes this, the better for him and the country. One needs guts to say this to his face. I must say that the PSP has got a really strong leader.’

A group of little girls appeared on stage to perform a dance. The dignitaries continued their conversation.

‘There is a bigger agenda hidden behind the activities of China, you see.’

‘What’s that?’

‘They want to occupy Bhutan, Sikkim, Ladakh, Nepal and NEFA. They consider these places the five fingers of the Tibetan hand. It means that Tibet is China’s hand and these places are the five fingers of that hand. I read it in the newspaper. Haven’t you?’

‘There is no proof of what is being said. If China had any ulterior motive, they would not have proposed talks next month. China has said that talks should be held between the officials of both the sides. That’s not unreasonable,’ said the CPI leader.

‘Not unreasonable? How can you say that? China has proposed that both the parties should move back twelve miles from the border till any solution is reached.’