NETAJI’s LIFE BEYOND DECLARED DEATH

(Based on authentic information from Books, Internet, Mr. Anuj Dhar’s book ‘Back from Dead’ and Shahnawaj, Khosala and Mukherjee Commission’s proceedings)

 

• Japanese held Netaji in highest esteem and they did not want him to be caught as ‘War Criminal’. Japanese also saw Netaji as a person who can do something to improve relation between Japan and Russia and protect their interest in Manchuria.

• With Japanese investments and rich natural resources, Manchuria was developed an industrial powerhouse. It was a large reservoir of Japanese Weapons. That time, Japanese could have thought to give up Japan but not to give up Manchuria because the later was so vital for them, as they had stockpiled large amount of weapons (enough to sustain more than 7,00,000 troops for several years) in hidden remote and hard-to-reach areas all over Manchuria and more than 200 submarines.

• During August 1945, Manchuria had presence of Kwantung Army (Japan), Kuomintang troops of Chiang Kai-shek, groups of People Liberation Army (Communist Party of China) and then Red Army (Russian) took over the command almost without any resistance. Such an area was ideal for Netaji’s future plans as all these groups were at war among themselves, but friendly to Subhas Bose, rather Netaji was seen as a potential mediator between them, as a strong anti-imperialist and pro-Asian Leader.

• Many people will be surprised to learn that the secret diplomatic ties were established between Stalin and Japanese Emperor ‘Hirohito’ during Second World War, through Kato Kachu (an Indian), the Consulate of Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) at Omsk office in Russia established by Netaji in December1944.

 

 

17th Aug. 1945 • On 17 August 1945, at Bangkok before flying to Saigon, Netaji, Lt. General Ishoda, Col. Kagawa, Maj. Gen. Bhosle and Lt. Col. Habibur Rehman dicussed how to get Netaji to Russia and some idea of Netaji’s Plan in Russia. Netaji flew from Bangkok at 8 AM and reached Saigon around 11 AM with his Colleagues. General Isoda finalized Netaji’s escape plan with Field Marshal Terauchi at Dalat.

• Field Marshal Count Terauchi, Commander-in-Chief Southern Command of Japanese Quantung Army (starting from Burma, Thiland, China to Manchuria) and close relative of Emperor of Japan – Hirihito, had great respect and affection for Netaji. He instructed General Isoda to help Netaji to reach Russian Occupied Territory in Manchuria on his (Terauchi’s) own responsibility and directed Lt. General Shidei to accompany Netaji. General Shidei, who knew

Russian language and Manchurian topography very well, was going to take command of Quantung Army in order to have a peaceful surrender of Japan to Red Army.

• A secret meeting of Netaji, Col. Habibur Rahman and Japanese Generals Isoda and Hachaiya took place behind closed doors in the house of Shri Narain Das, former local chief of IIL, to workout details of the PLAN. The rest of the INA officials were not privy to the content or subject of that meeting. Netaji’s further plan, to reach Russia through Manchuria and declaration of plane crash to be announced later, was decided in this meeting. It was also decided that General Shidei will look after Netaji up to Dairen.

• Netaji gave a written message to John Thivy of Indian Independence League “I am writing to you on the eve of a long journey by air and who knows an accident may not overtake me”. (the message indicates Netaji’s plan for disappearance)

• In the evening of 17th August 1945 at 5.45 PM, Netaji took leave of his Staff at Saigon Airport and boarded the Japanese Bomber Plane with General Shidei and Col. Habibur Rehman. Plane reached Dalat, Headquarter of Field Marshal Terauchi – the Supreme Commander of Japanese Quantung Army. Thus, Netaji and General Shidei were separated from others. Nobody went to Taihoku, hence there was no Plane Crash. (Taiwan Government has confirmed that there was no plane crash on Matsuyama Airport of Taihoku from 14.08.1945 to 25.10.1945.)

18th Aug. 1945

to

22nd Aug. 1945 • On 18th August 1945, Lt. General Hikosaburo met Russian Major General Shelakor to work out peaceful surrender modalities of Japanese Quantung Army and safe handover of Netaji.

• “So called death” of Netaji in a plane crash at Taihoku ( as decided, in advance, to be declared after his escape to Russian territory), while Netaji was very much present in the vicinity of Saigon on 18th August 1945.

• On 19th August 1945, a meeting took place between Ho-Chi- Minh (the Famous Vietnamese Revolutionary (later Head of North Vietnam, known as ‘Uncle Ho’) and renowned Chinese General Liu-Po-Cheng at Saigon in which Netaji was also present. American Intelligence officer and War correspondent of Chicago Tribune, Mr. Alfred Wagg and Bishop of Dalat saw Netaji in Saigon, after declared death. Mr. Wagg also took some photographs of Netaji and later met with Nehru, Gandhi, Sarat Bose and others and told that he saw Subhas at Saigon, after the news of Plane Crash.(other reference: Sunday Observer, London dated 2.9.1945)

• Up to 21 August 1945, Netaji stayed at Dalat, 10 miles away from Saigon, the Headquarter of Japanese Quantung Army in South East Asia with Field Marshal Terauchi.

• On 22 Aug. 1945, Japanese Quantung Army, led by General Otozo, finally, surrendered to General Alexander Varsilovsky of Russian Red Army in Manchurian Capital, Harbin, as pre-

arranged plan because both Japan and USSR did not want Anglo-American entry in Manchurian Region.

23rd Aug. 1945 • On 23 August 1945, Netaji reached Dairen (Manchuria) at 1.30 p.m. from Saigon in a Japanese Bomber Plane along with General Shidei, General Otozo and Lt. General Hikosaburo. They entered Russian occupied territory ‘Mukden’ with General Shidei and others in a jeep. After 3 hours jeep returned to Dairen and informed to the pilot of the plane who then flew back to Tokyo.

• Netaji was received at Mukden by Russian Emissary and Kato Kachu – the Consulate of Provisional Government of Free India at Omsk office in Russia. USSR had allowed a center of Provisional Government of Free India at Omsk in spite of being an ally to USA and UK in Second World War. Ref: (i)WO 203/4673HS/SEAC/591 dated 19.10.1945 Public Records Office, London (ii) File INA 273 Exhibit 242, page-12

• On 23 August 1945, General Isoda informed Shri Sengupta (Bose’s aide) “Don’t worry, His Excellency Subhas Chandra Bose is in safe custody”

• On 23 August 1945, Japanese Broadcasting Agency declared death of Netaji in plane crash. This declaration was made after ensuring Bose’s entry to Russian Territory.

• Field Marshal Wavell wrote in his diary “Japanese Announcement of Subhas Chandra Bose’s death in an Air- Crash…I suspect it very much…it is just what should be given out if he (Subhas) meant to go underground.”

• Supreme Allied Commander South East Asia, Admiral Mountbatten constituted a team comprising his most able Secret and Intelligence officers: Intelligence Bureau Deputy Director –Finney and his assistants Davis, A K Roy, Kalipad Dey, and “Rai Bahadur” Bakshi Badrinath to catch Bose alive. The team, after intensive investigations, reported that “Bose has gone underground to reappear at the correct psychological moment.” Reference: (i) Doc. No. 10005/3/GSI (b),The British library, Oriental and India Office Collection, London (ii) American Intelligence Reports about the activities of Netaji during17-25 August 1945 and (iii) Letters from General Mc Aurthur to American President Truman during17-31 August 1945

• Again it was a big slap on the British by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Philip Finney (who knew Subhas Chandra Bose from the days as Superintendent of Police in Bengal) was sure that Subhas has made his way to Russian occupied Territory. But the British allowed the wide circulation of Bose’s death only to keep Indians’ morale low at that time.

• Note of Sir R. F. Mudie (Home Member of Wavell Govt.) dated 23.8.45 to Sir E. M. Jenkins (PS to Viceroy Wavell) for consideration of British Cabinet on “Treatment of Bose” is a clear cut evidence that Netaji did not die in any Plane Crash on 18th August 1945. It goes like this:

Mudie proposed :

One of the most difficult questions that will confront Home Department in the near future is the treatment of Subhas Chandra Bose… Indian masses have deep admiration and respect for Subhas Bose …

1. Bring him back to India and try him either for waging war or under the enemy agents’ ordinance.

2. Have him tried by a court in Burma or Malaya for waging war against the King in that country.

3. Have him tried by a military court outside India.

4. Intern him in India.

5. Intern him in some other British possession, e.g. Seychelles Islands

6. Leave him where he is and do not ask for his surrender.

7. I do not think that there is any chance of Bose being hanged if he is tried in India. The pressure for his release would be too great; and also his trial would result in great publicity for his doings, motives, etc.

8. It is extremely unlikely that the Government of Burma, which is engaged in appeasing the Burma National Army, would agree to try Bose and even more likely that if they did, they would hang him. The Government of Malaya might possibly have no such scruples and we might get a hanging if His Majesty's Government agreed to ignore agitation in India and Parliament however strong. But a trial in Singapore would cause almost as much agitation in this country as a trial here, unless it was held in camera and no news released till after his execution. But in that case we would be accused of judicial murder.

9. In many ways the easiest course would be to leave him where he is and not ask for his release. He might, of course, in certain circumstances, be welcomed by the Russians. This course would raise fewest immediate political difficulties, but the security authorities consider that in certain circumstances his presence in Russia would be so dangerous to rule it out altogether.

10. The choice seems to be between deporting and interning Bose outside India or trying him in India and commuting the death sentence. The two might be combined and Bose deported (or "transported") after conviction.

Yours sincerely,

R.F. Mudie

(Ref: Transfer of Power, Vol. VI, Pages 138-139)

 

28th  Aug.

1945

European members of Calcutta Municipal Corporation refused to condole the death of Netaji saying that “You are asking us to condole the death of someone who is not dead.”

Sept. & Oct. 1945

Netaji started his activities in Russian Territory by organizing meetings with Russians and Indians to work for India’s freedom.

Then, Netaji was seen in Indo-china on 27th September 1945. In October 1945, Netaji stayed in the house of an Army officer in South China for

several days as a guest and had a series of discussion with various communist leaders. On 25 October 1945, Clement Attlee, Stafford Cripps and Penthik Lawrence (Secretary

of State for India) discussed the issue of Subhas Bose and decided not to ask Russia for Bose’s surrender.

In October 1945, INA men were openly declaring “We are Netaji’ time bomb and will burst at right time. Our leader will return to lead us.”

Nov.

1945  to

Feb. 1946

 

In November 1945, Netaji went to Moscow and stayed there for sometime, discussing various sections of Indians and Russians about the ways and means to liberate India.

On 25th November 1945, Indian community in Russia had a meeting with Bose.

(Ref: British Intelligent Report- PRO.WO.203/804 from HQ Army to SACSEAI2060.ISUM No. 21)

On 20 December 1945, a Japanese newspaper reported that Bose has reached Soviet Russia.

In December 1945, Russian Ambassador of Afghan Province of Khost confirmed Netaji’s presence in Moscow. Tehran report also confirmed the news.

During November and December 1945, Netaji wrote five letters to Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru from USSR but Nehru, rather than helping Subhas, informed British his whereabouts.

In December 1945, Nehru  received a letter from  Bose in which he wrote that he was in Russia and he wished to come to India via Chitral (now in Pakistan). He asked Nehru to make arrangements for his come back. Gandhiji was also aware of this letter.

(Ref: Top Secret File No.  273/INA  Document C-4, Part VI,  National Archive, New Delhi and                File No. 10/Misc/INA/Page 38-39 handed over to Shahanawaj Committee)

On 27 Dec. 1945, Nehru sent a letter to Clement Attlee to inform him that Shri Bose has been given  shelter by Stalin. He should take up the matter with Stalin:

Dear Mr. Attlee,

I have come to know from a reliable source that Subhas Chandra Bose, your war criminal, has been allowed to enter Russian territory by Stalin. This is a clear treachery and betrayal of faith by the Russians. As Russia has been an ally of the British-Americans, it should not have been done. Please take note of it and do what you consider proper and fit.

Yours sincerely,

Jawaharlal Nehru

An Asian Liberation Army was formed by Netaji with the support of Russia towards the end of 1945 and in early 1946, involving Warlords’ troops of about 15,00,000 men of former Japanese puppet Government in Manchuria (who joined Kuomintang army of Chiang-Kai-Shek after World War II and discharged under Marshal Plan). Indians, Chinese, Burmese, Indochinese, Malayans, Indonesians, Philppinese, Siamese, present in that region, all joined this army. This army was equipped with huge stock pile of Japanese Weaponry hidden in secret depots in remote and hard to reach areas all over Manchuria which was enough to sustain 7,00,000 troops (which surrendered to USSR in August 1945) for 3-4 years. The Warlords troops had an experience and training to handle Japanese Weaponry and knew exactly where the secret depots of arms were existing in Manchuria. Later, this army helped Chinese Communist Party (CCP) under Mao-Tse-Tung in his Revolutionary War, against Chiang-Kai-Shek, with 5,00,000 troops, 49 Howitzers, 300 Heavy mortars, 3700 Artillery pieces, 900 Aircraft, 97 Canons, 700 Tanks, 12,000 Machine guns, several lakhs Rifles and artillery rounds. Chinese Communist Party (CCP) could succeed in Chinese Civil War only because of this help, otherwise nobody was expecting their success up to January 1946 which had not more than 50,000 men by then. This was the reason why Netaji preferred to reach Manchuria to continue his fight for India’s freedom. Netaji was planning to use this army and huge stock pile of Japanese arms to liberate India before his detention in Irkutsk Gulag towards the end of 1946.

o Netaji made three Radio Broadcasts on 26.12.1945, 01.01.1946 & 19.02.1946 from Radio Manchukio, Russian Territory. In his 3rd Broadcast, Netaji mentioned to come to India with the help of Russia and with Asian Liberation Army in the early part of 1947. He also warned British not to harass his men of

INA:  “… We are under the shelter of one of the great powers of the world… The battle of freedom is not easy… We are sure to be successful within the next two years… I will go to India on the crest of a Third World War and sit in the judgment upon those who are trying my officers and my men at Red Fort…”

Ref: (i) Shri P. C. Kar - the Radio Monitor of then Bengal Governor Sir Richard G. Casey, (ii) PM Office File No. 870/11/P/16/92-POL page 21-22) requisitioned by the Mukherjee Commission again and again but not provided by the Govt. of India and (iii) London correspondent of ‘Dainik Sevika’, dt.18th March 1946, a daily published from Malaya.

On 30 December 1945 and then on 11 January 1946, Gandhi said “Subhas Bose is alive and hiding somewhere.” Sharat Bose also expressed the same view.

On 31 Dec. 1945, The National Herald reported that Bose is in Russia. On 3rd January1946, Hindustan Times front page story was “Gandhi believes Subhas is

alive”. On 23rd January1946, a speaker said in Singapore that “Subhas is alive and will return

to India as the free President of a free country”. Trial of INA prisoners at Red Fort aroused revolt and unrest all over UNDIVIDED

INDIA  in Army, in Navy, in Police, in Public and  in Government officials. Unrest started even before the INA trial started when people came to know the heroic deeds of INA and Netaji.

Between 21 and 26 November 1945, Calcutta was strike-bound. More than a hundred were killed or injured in police firing as many INA prisoners were secretly killed by British in Calcutta in November 1945.

Hindus and Muslims - their trucks flying both Congress and Muslim League flags—jointly took over the city, attacking American and British military establishments and shouting the slogans of freedom and nationalism coined by Netaji. Some 49 military vehicles were destroyed and 97 damaged, and about 200 military personnel injured: thirty-two Indians lost their lives and 200 were wounded. The violence soon spread along the Gangetic plain to Patna, Allahabad and Benaras and eventually places as far apart as Karachi and Bombay were affected.

In January 1946, 5200 Royal Indian Air Force personnel had gone on strike to express sympathy with INA prisoners.

Between 11 and 14 February 1946, the streets of Calcutta, Bombay and Delhi witnessed unique political demonstrations in which Hindus and Muslims forgot their differences and came together to fight the I.N.A.'s battles.

On 18 February 1946, a revolt began on HMS Talwar, a training ship of the Royal Indian(British) Navy in Bombay.

By nightfall on the 20 February 1946,  virtually the whole of the Royal Indian Navy was in open rebellion. 78 warships in the various ports of India: Bombay, Karachi, Madras, Vishakhapatnam, Calcutta, Cochin, and Andamans and nearly all the shore establishments had hauled down the Union Jack. Only 10 ships and two shore establishments still remained with the British.

Between 22 and 25 February 1946, the Royal Indian Armed Forces in Bombay and Madras went on strike and on the 27 February 1946, Indian soldiers in Jabalpur followed.

In Bombay there had been, what even the British owned ‘Times of India’ was forced to call, a 'Mass Uprising’. About 6,00,000 workers from the textile mills of Bombay had gone on strike to fight with British troops in the streets and lanes of Bombay.

The British had tanks and machine-guns, the workers had improvised weapons and even at times stones from dug-up roads. In the end, 270 had died and 1,300 had been injured. Undoubtedly, a revolutionary situation had been created without any existing political leader. The Congress had nothing to do with the entire upsurge. Rather, Gandhi, Jinnah, Patel, Nehru and other Congress leaders deplored the revolt.

·     Such a situation existed in 1945-46 owed to Netaji Subhas Bose and his INA. A Revolution could have happened if there had been a leader prepared to lead them - Netaji Bose was needed at that time in India. True, his army did not parade as victors in the Red Fort; but their trial had aroused the revolutionary feelings throughout the country. This had proved that his belief in a revolutionary consciousness was grounded in a deeper understanding of the Indian people than his contemporary politicians.

Wavell wrote:

"… In many cities, there are Muslims who support Subhas than Jinnah … We are sitting on a volcano that is about to erupt.”

Sir Stafford Cripps made the position crystal clear in British Parliament:

"…The Indian Army in India is not obeying the British officers. In these conditions if we have to rule India for a long time, we have to keep a permanent British army for a long time in a vast country of four hundred millions. We have no such army…"

Attlee quickly understood implications and started negotiating Independence of India with Indian leaders. The British government announced in February 1946 that a Cabinet mission of three ministers would visit India that was later rejected by Gandhiji but agreed by Nehru, Patel, Jinnah etc.

On 20 February 1946, Attlee pledged the British government to transfer power to Indian hands, if necessary, as two separate nations, 'not later than June 1948’.

On the night of the 23 February 1946, four days after the naval revolt started, the British Cabinet held an emergency meeting and decided to transfer political power to the Congress and League leaders.

Nehru wrote Mountbatten that Subhas Bose should not be allowed to return until India is partitioned. (Ref: Ex-Colonel of INA- Lakshami Sehgal’s interview to Mr.V. P. Saini dated 13.07.1992)

Later, Nehru had to associate with INA Trial to gain sympathy of public and INA men and to have complete information on the issue.         

March 1946

On 1st March 1946, a British Intelligence Report said “… Plane crash is a deception plan which has been extremely carefully and ingeniously organized…”

During March 1946, Nehru visited Singapore. Lord Mountbatten cautioned Nehru not to help INA and raise issues related to Bose otherwise he (Nehru) would loose power to Bose on his return.

On 23 March 1946, R. F. Mudie wrote  to Sir E. Jenkins “Bose does not come under the definition of  War Criminal adopted by United Nations.”

On 24 March 1946, Hindustan Times story was “Netaji is not Dead”

April 1946

Russian  Vice Consul General in Tehran Mr. Maradoff disclosed that Bose is in Russia where he is secretly organizing a group of Russians and Indians to work for India’s freedom. (Ref: Report C-4, Part IV dated 8 April 1946, National Archive Delhi)

Norman Smith, Director of IB, had information about Netaji’s presence in Russian Territory (Doc. No. L/PJ/12/217, The British Library, London, Oriental and India Collections). British Intelligence had a vigil on Indo-Burmese and other borders for years.

June &July 1946

In June- July 1946, Netaji helped Mao-Tse-Tung in Chinese Revolutionary War with Asian Liberation Army and huge stock of Japanese Arms (present in Munchurian Region).

On 22 July 1946, Sharat Bose briefed United Press in Bombay “Subhas Bose is alive. The story of plane crash is a myth.”

On 22 July 1946, Khurshed (Ben) Naoroji, a secretary of  Mahatma Gandhi wrote a Letter  to Prof.  Louis Fischer, an  American journalist to prevail upon the US president for exerting pressure on UK to immediately concede freedom to India mentioning “At heart, Indian (British) Army is Sympathic with the Indian National Army (INA). If Bose comes to India with the help of Russia, neither Gandhi nor  the Congress will be able to reason with the  country (India)…” … If Russia declares itself an Asian country there will be no hope for European alliance with India” …

In July 1946, riots were engineered by British between Hindus and Sikhs on the one hand and Muslims on the other. British instructed secret agencies to work out  a “POST QUIT  PLAN” to disintegrate India in more than 100 parts.   

Aug. 1946

 To

 Dec. 1946

In August 1946, Stalin and his Politbureau members (Voroshilov, Vyshinski, Mikoyan and Foreign Minister- Molotov, discussed “Should Bose be kept in Russia?” (Ref:Alexander Kolesnikov, from a file in Paddosk Militry Archive, Russia)

On 28 August 1946, V. G. Sayadyants, a Soviet secret agent operating in Bombay was called by Nehru and handed over a secret letter for Stalin to  be handed over personally to him seeking  Stalin’s support.

On 1 September 1946, V. G. Sayadyants submitted his report to Stalin on the Political situation of India.

In September 1946, on instruction of Nehru, Krishna Menon met Molotov (then Soviet Foreign Minister) in Paris  for hours to bargain over the issue of Bose and assured him to push Russian interest in India. 

(Ref: Communication between Viceroy Wavell and India Office, London)

British Communist Leader Mr. Gallacher gave a statement that De Valera, President of Irish Revolutionary Army welcomed Bose at Dublin in Ireland in September 1946.

A. Kolesnikov (the former Major General of Warsa Pact) told Sri Chitta Basu (Forward Bloc leader) that documents reveals the presence of Netaji in Russia up to October 1946.

Netaji was present in USSR in pseudo name of ‘Ghilsai Malang’ as per Mr. Ram Rahul’s statement.

During this period, many documents referred that British High officials and UK Cabinet headed by Clement Attlee were discussing how Bose to be eliminated without taking recourse to judicious killing. Finally, both New Delhi and London agreed that best course of action will be to leave Bose in Russia itself and not bring him back to India.

It is understood that after a lot of pressure from UK and a secret arrangement between USSR, UK and contemporary politicians of India (who were against Netaji’s return to India for ever), towards the end of 1946, Stalin ordered Netaji’s detention in a VIP Camp- in Cell No. 45 of Irkutsk Gulag near Baikul Lake and Ural Mountains. Indian Revolutionary Abani Mukherjee was kept in Cell No. 53 in the same Camp.

Ref: (i) Confirmation by Shri Goga (son of Shri Abani Mukherjee) to Dr. Satyanarayan Sinha (former Indian Ambassador to Russia)  (ii) Confirmation to Press at Delhi by Ms. Swetlana (daughter of Stalin) (iii) PMO Files 2(64)/56-66-PM (Vol.III, page no. 112)   

15 Aug. 1947

INDIA WON so called FREEDOM. British Viceroy, British Army Chief and British and American Intelligence continued.  India became a part of British Commonwealth. Gandhi and Nehru protected British and American business interests in India.

Jan. 1948

Dr. Radhakrishan went to Russia in a delegation to participate in philosophical conference. Dr. Radhakrishan met Netaji. Netaji had asked him to make arrangements for his return to India. Mr. Radhakrishnan told this to higher-ups

(Nehru) on his return. Dr. Radhakrishan was warned (not to disclose the matter) and promised  the  post  of  President after  Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

1948

Netaji was seen in Siberia VIP camps (Irkutsk) by Zerovin, a German who knew Bose from Germany days. Zerovin told Mr. Ardendu Sarkar that Bose was looked after well and was given a car and personal attendant at that time.

Zerovin asked Bose,“ What is your programme, Sir. Are you going back to India?” ·    Bose replied, “I expect it very soon.”   

1949

Ms. Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, first Ambassador of free India to Russia came to know about Netaji’s presence in Russia and wanted to declare back home in 1949, but Nehru did not allow.

Dr. Radhakrishnan was deputed Ambassador Extra-ordinary to USSR from 1949 to 1953 and then made Vice-President of India in 1953, which surprised many congressmen of that time.

Most of the past associates of Netaji and his near & dears were posted to high offices in India and abroad by Nehru Government to win them over to his side.

International News Agency of  Germany “Interpress” published an article in which it claimed to have proof of  Bose’s presence in Russia.

German journalist  Raimund Schnabel told Emilie Schenkl  that  Netaji  was  in Soviet Union after August’1945.

Netaji was released from Irkutsk Gulag in Sept’1949; as by then War Criminal trial was over, People’s War in China was towards its end, and the cold war started between USA and USSR. (Bhagwanji later said that “Stalin did not treat me like an enemy”… “In late 1949, at the onset of the Cold War and end of ‘War Criminal Trial’ this “Dead Man” left the Soviet Union… with the best memories of choicest Indian Cuisine in Kremlin. Time was not yet ripe to go to India as British Rule continued in India even after 1947. India was under British Commonwealth. Army Chiefs were British. Indian Ambassadors were being appointed under the signature of King George VI.                                                           

Oct, 1949

[1st week]

On 1st October 1949, Mao-Tse-Tung proclaimed People’s Republic of China. Netaji was welcomed in Red China of Mao-Tse-Tung. On 7th October 1949, lead story in daily ‘The Nations’ was that Government of India

has definite information that Netaji is in Red China of Mao-Tse-Tung.

1949-1954

It is said that Netaji visited many places in several countries (Russia, China, Korea, Vietnam, Ireland, Burma etc.) during 1949 to 1954 in pseudo names and disguises.

In 1949, British Parliament discussed the issue of Netaji Bose being alive in China and preparing for war against British with the help of Russia and China.

In last week of October 1949, there was a Radio announcement that the lost Indian Revolutionary might deliver a speech from Radio Peaking.

On 28 Nov’1949, German News Agency “Interpress” declared Netaji’s presence in China. (Babu Bose: The Man Behind Asian Liberation Front)

In January 1950, China and USSR recognized Ho-Chi-Minh’s Democratic Republic of Vietnam. China started sending Military Advisors and modern weapons to Vietnam. Netaji was the Chief Military Advisor to Viet-Minh Army.

o A division of Asian Liberation Army headed by a ‘Missing Indian General of Second World War’ (read Subhas Bose) fought shoulder to shoulder with Viet-Minh in Vietnam War. (Ref: Sensational disclosure made by Robert Mac Namara, United State Defense Secretary and then by his successor Clark Clifford (United State Defense Secretary) during an International Conference in Jakarta held in May 1970)

Muthuramalingam Thevar, a Forward Bloc leader and close associate of Netaji stayed with Netaji in China from January to October 1950 on advice of  Shri Sarat Chandra Bose and Government of India was aware of his “illegal” trip to China without passport. Shri Thever said that Netaji was present in China as head of Asian Liberation Army headquartered at Sikiang Autonomous Region of China (Tibet) on China-Assam border.

On 22 April 1950, Col. Laxmi Sehgal told Leonard Gordon (the writer of “Brothers Against The Raj”) that Bose is now in China rather than being in Russia.

In 1951, Col. Tada told Mr. SA Ayer that Netaji planned to shift his area of operation to Soviet Russia (USSR) and plane crash story was a part of his strategy to confuse the Anglo-American forces as Britain had ordered “to deal with Subhas at spot” as a “War Criminal”.

Photographs in a book written by Shri Syamal Basu indicate Netaji’s presence in Peking in 1952. There is a photograph of Netaji with Mao-Tse-Tung and Zhou-En-Lai at Nanking near Red river. Netaji was also seen in conference of Mongolian Trade Union Congress at Peking on 8th August 1952.

In 1952, Netaji had a high level meeting with Naga rebel leader Phizo near Indo-Tibet border. (Ref: Hindustan Standard dated 2nd Sept1957 as told by Mawu, Personal Envoy of Phizo, arrested in 1957)

On 5th March 1953, Stalin died. Korean War ended on 27th July 1953, dividing country into Communist North and

Democratic South. On 29th April 1954, Nehru signed ‘Panchsheel Pact’ with China on ‘Trade and

Intercourse’ between India and the Tibet Region of China. In last week of June 1954, Zhou-En-Lai paid his first visit to New Delhi at the

invitation of Jawaharlal Nehru. Zhou-En-Lai was given welcome on mass scale for four days.

On 20th July 1954, Geneva Accords (USA, UK, China, USSR, France, Viet Minh and Bao Dai, Cambodia and Laos) divided Vietnam into North and South Vietnam.

In October 1954, Ho Chi Minh returned to Hanoi (North Vietnam) after a hide of 8 years in jungle.

In 3rd week of October 1954, Jawaharlal Nehru visited China and had secret talks with Mao-Tse-Tung and Zhou-En-Lai on 19th October 1954.

During 1950-54, Netaji not only advised China in internal and international affairs but also Netaji’s Asian Liberation Army helped Korean and Vietnam War efforts. It is said that Mao structured progress of China in Netaji’s way.

 

This fact may surprise many Indians that China was eager to resolve border issue with India through peaceful talks accepting McMohan Line as border, as she did later with Burma, Nepal (with minor adjustments) and with Pakistan (even by giving away 750 square miles territory). But starting from September 1951 (during the period when Netaji was in China), in spite of repeated letters and statements from Zhou-En-Lai (stating “China is not willing to fight with India”), Nehru ignored the issue and adopted an external policy of appeasement towards China but internal ‘Forward Policy’ of establishing the check-posts along (and even crossing) McMohan Line basically to keep a vigil on Netaji’s entry to India from that side, on advice of Shri BN Mullick, then Director of Intelligence Bureau.  

It is understood that China was pressurized to eliminate Netaji but Mao sounded Netaji. Now, neither Imperialist Bloc Countries nor Communist Bloc Countries could be his abode. USSR and China did not want another confrontation with USA and Western Allies after Korean and Vietnam wars. Keeping in view these developments in Asia and apprehending India’s fate similar to Korea and Vietnam (another division), if he (Netaji) surfaced out in political life again, Netaji withdrew himself from political scene of the world and took SANYAS in Tibet. After sometime, he went to Nepal passing through Kailash-Mansarovar and then deciding to live OR die in his own Motherland (India) itself (rather in some foreign country), towards the end of 1954, Netaji as a ‘SANYASI’ entered India from Nepal through Nepalganj with the help of Mahadev Prasad Mishra a Sanskrit teacher working in Nepal.              

  THE WHOLE MATERIAL IS COMPILED BY VEERESH GAHLOT ___1  OF THE  ADMINS OF DIS PAGE

 

 

Findings on Netaji

New Findings on Netajiby Professor (Dr) Purabi Roy

The following paper is reproduced with the permission of the author.-- anuj.dhar@gmail.com

Also see: Dr Roy's affidavit before Mukherjee Commission & Homepage of this site

Subhas Chandra Bose stood at the heart of the Indian national FreedomMovement and remains its representative figure. He was an outstandingpersonality and also a supreme popular leader. His genius lay inunderstanding that among the people was a profound revolutionary spiritwhich only waited to be called upon to ensure victory. He was very

conscious of the nature of bargain with the British, his uncompromisingattitude made him "number one enemy".

In 1921 Subhas Chandra Bose returned to India from England resigning from his princely career. After resigning his post in the Indian Civil Service, Subhas threw himself heart and soul under the lead and guide of Chittaranjan Das. Politics of C.R.Das was the mature expression of that political idealism which was in a nebulous state in young Bose's mind. C.R.Das's dedication to Swaraj or self Government was unambiguous and categorical. No wonder that Subhas felt that he had found his leader and dedicated to have his political training under him.

A large number of left wing nationalists all over the world thought that the Soviet revolution heralded an era of an unprecedented social and economic reconstruction. The progress and development of the socialist revolution in Russia had a very good influence upon the east. So, this was the time when India constitutes a special problem for the consideration of the Communist International in order to carry on an intensive propaganda and organizational work in the sub-continent. In March 1922 just after the sitting of the Enlarged Executive Committee of Comintern, Abani Mukherjee the Indian revolutionary was requested by Comrade Branler, the then member of Prenidium Comentern and Comrade Losovsky of Profintern, to go to India and to study the situation personally.

Abani came to India, in Calcutta he met Chitta Ranjan Das and virtually spent eleven months there. C.R.Das requested his young soldier Subhas to arrange a safe and secured place for Abani to live. These days brought Subhas and Abani more closer.

Abani after his return to USSR stated in his report to Comrade Petrov, Secretary, Eastern Section, Comintern, MOSCOW ...... "The right hand man of C.R.Das, Mr. S. Bose, being pro-communist, and a friend of ours, we have a good influence over the Swaraja party." (1)

A Careful study of various reports, debates and correspondences of Executive Committee Communist International (ECCI) related to India can provide a very systematic and clear idea and can reveal many unknown details about the Indian revolutionaries and freedom fighters in relation to USSR.

Report of Comrade Jhonstone to the Eastern Secretariat of Comintern in 1929 narrates ...... "a Socialist Youth Movement which is very strong but it is intellectual with no proletarians in it and it has no proletarian outlook. They are led by Young Nehru and Chandra Bose".... "The Socialist Youth base themselves on Socialism". (2)

If we go through the various reports of the Plenum materials i.e. Report on India at Tenth Plenum of "ECCI" dated 3-7-29 indicates ...... "The movement in Bengal was quite different. In Calcutta a small group of Communists proved so far incapable of emerging from the petty bourgeois mire, although efforts have been made by some Comrades. This is due also to the fact that of all the workers and Peasants' Parties the one of Bengal had the deepest "traditions" which linked it up with the left wing of Swarajism" (3)

The materials for the XII Plenum 1932, and for the XIII plenum 1933 of ECCI made a critical

analyses of the 'national reformists' indicating their present activities. 1932 XII Plenum material states ........ "the left national reformists are strengthening their positions and head certain sections of the proletariat ...... the left national reformists taking advantage of the weakness of the Communist Party" (4)

It is interesting to observe the material for the XIII Plenum ECCI of 14.11.1933 where it has divided the bourgeois national Camp into three groups. According to the analyses the third group ...... "Consists of 'Left' Congressists Bose & Co, who while criticizing Gandhi from the "left" propose to participate in the legislative assemblies and are preparing new leaders. ...... . It will not be wonderful if the "left" Bose & Co and the right join together and try to form a Party similar to the former Swaraj party." (5)

In 1933 Bose reached Vienna for the purpose of recovering his health. In Europe he was practically in a state of externment. He was not permitted to go to England, USSR and America. But Subhas Bose was a firm believer in foreign propaganda for the achievement of India's freedom. He made an elaborate plan to set up Centres of Indian Nationalist propaganda in various European Countries with a view to bridge the gulf between the East and the West.

Indian revolutionaries in Europe like Shyamji Krishna Varma, Sardar Singh Rana, Madame Bhikaji Kama, continued with their untiring effort to build up contacts with the bolshevcks. Mikhail Pavlovich, close associate of Lenin was in Paris and had shouldered the responsibility to keep a regular relation with the revolutionaries of the east. Virendranath Chattopadhyaya who worked for the League Against Imperialism and For National Independence Berlin was a dedicated worker of Communist International. Apart from his regular contact with the Soviet Comrades in Leningrad and Moscow he had established a very good relation with the Soviet 'TASS' representatives in Berlin. Soviet 'TASS' representation in Berlin was one of the main sources to supply informations about India to USSR. Virendranath made the full use of it by introducing ACN Nambiar to the then 'TASS' representative Menkes in Berlin.

Berlin20 February 1930An dieTASSZ.H. des Genossen MenkesBerlin N.W.

Lieber Genosse Menkes,

1) 1) ..........................

2) 2) ..........................

3) Mit der provisorischen Erledigung dieser Arbeiten wird der Genosse Nambiar beauftragt

4) Genosse Nambiar erhalt bis auf weiteres von der TASS eine Akkordbezahlung fiir das jeweillg gelieferte Material Zu den ublichen Tarifen der TASS. Die Frage einer eventuellen

regelmassigen Berichterstattung durch Genossen nambiar under diesbezuglichen Bezahlung wird von der Leitung der TASS in Moskau Zu entscheiden sein.................................... Mit besten Griiben

LIGA GEGEN IMPERIALISMUSInternationals Sekretariat

Sd / V. Chattopadhyaya. (6)

In 1933 when Subhas Bose arrived in Berlind ACN Nambiar helped him to be in regular touch with the 'TASS' representatives in Berlin Z.H. Menkes and U.I. Annankova.

Bose was a firm believer in foreign propaganda, as an unofficial ambassador he started visiting the European countries. In 1933 he went to Romania where in Bucharest he met and enjoyed the hospitality of one of the best eye specialists Lt. Col. Dr. Narsingh Mulgand. The Maharashtrian doctor and Bose interchanged their ideas and set up a future plan.

From Romania Subhas Bose went to Poland. The Oriental Society in Warsaw invited him to a social gathering where he spoke about the desire for a Polish-Indian Society which would endeavour to foster Cultural and Commercial relations between India and Poland. He met in Warsaw the famous Orientalist Stanislav F. Mikhailsky who was exceedingly hospitable and presented his publications to Bose.

Subhas Bose took part in the convention of the students of Asia held at Rome in December 1935. The Conference was inaugurated by Signor Mussolini.

In February 1936 he went to Ireland. He always felt great admiration for the Irish struggle for freedom under De Valera whom he met in Dublin and was received by him cordially, and where he was given a state reception.

During his travel in Europe Bose felt that everywhere there is a colossal ignorance about India - but at the same time there is a general feeling of sympathy for and interest in India. He realised that this sympathy could easily be enlarged and developed if necessary steps were taken from the Indian side.

Bose's untiring effort to acquire international sympathy on the one hand and on the other hand setting out plans with the help of ACN Nambiar by maintaining a regular contact with USSR through 'TASS' representation in Berlin - all these were meticulously observed and noted and had been taken into account by the Comintern Indian Section. The letter of 'Gordon' to Charlie Johnson dated 23.03.1936 clearly indicates ...... "it is a good job that Bose is not allowed to return to India to further complicate a difficult situation for our Comrades". ...... "Enclosed is Report No.8. this contains some interesting information in connection with Bose" (unfortunately Report No.8 is not available in the archive author's comment) (7)

Finally, Bose started for home, but as soon as he reached Bombay he was again arrested. India

expressed universal discontent at his continued incarceration by observing a Hartal on May 10, 1936. After a period of five years suffering he was unconditionally released on March 17, 1937.

Subhas Chandra Bose was a successful and worthy President of the Indian National Congress. As Congress President he did his best to stiffen the opposition of the Congress party to any compromise with Britain. Throughout 1938 he repeatedly advised the Congress Socialist party to broaden its platform and form a left bloc, for rallying all the radical and progressive elements in the Congress. This is the party did not do. Nevertheless he knew that within the Congress and among the people in general he had a very large measure of support and that all that he needed was an organised and disciplined party behind him. Besides, the left wing, or radical elements in the Congress, who were responsible for Subhas Chandra's re-election in 1939, were at a disadvantage because they were not organised under one leadership. India's primary political need in 1939 was an organised and disciplined left wing party in the Congress. So, Subhas Chandra Bose took the decision to resign the Presidentship and immediately proceeded to form a radical and entire left wing under one banner. This party was called the Forward Bloc, which sprang into existence in response to an historical necessity. On the otherside the Russo - German pact of 1939 was an event of the highest significance for India.

It made possible for the intellectuals, who any way were drawn to national socialism, to look upon Germany and Italy as forces which would bring about the end of British rule in India in friendship with the Soviet Union. During this period Subhas Chandra surveyed the whole war situation and came to the conclusion that Indian freedom fighters should have first hand knowledge as to what was happening abroad and should join the fight against British. After considering the various means with the Comrades of various organisations and parties he found no other alternative but to travel abroad. Initial detail plan of escape was primarily consulted and discussed with Niranjan Talib, editor "Desh Darpan". Sardar Baldev Singh, the former defence minister Government of India, introduced Talib to Achar Singh Chena of former Gadr Party. The executive committee of Communist Party of Lahore decided that Achar Singh whose Soviet name was Larkin, one of the organisers of Kirti in North West Frontier, should meet Subhas in order to chalk out the detail escape plan.

Comrade Achar Singh Chena and Comrade Ram Kishen came to meet Bhagat Ram Talwar in his village in North West Frontier. Bhagat Ram Talwar was member of Forward Bloc and was engaged in secret activities of Kirti Party.

Achar Singh met Bhagat Ram in June 1940 and requested him to help Subhas Chandra to reach the border of Soviet Union crossing through the tribal belt of Afghanistan.

After organizing the escape plan Achar Singh (Larkin) left for Soviet Union. In December 1940, Larkin submitted the thesis "The National Front in India" to Comrade Stalin.

Letter from the Head of the Cadre's Section Gulyaev and Senior Referent Kozlov to G.M. Dimitrov concerning Bhagat Ram Talwar and Subhas Chandra Bose confirms that the information received from Achar Singh Chena or Larkin coincides with the details. Further they write " Also under instructions from the Kirti Group, which is referred to everywhere in the document as the Executive Committee of the communist Party of Lahore, he arranged the move

of Bose to Kabul, and then, in May 1941, he accompanied Shervan to Kabul (i.e. Harminder Sodi, the former student of KUTV) and finally he himself came to Kabul to establish contact with us." (8)

Bhagat Ram Talwar accompanied Subhas Chandra Bose to Kabul and started establishing contact with the Soviet and German emmisaries in Kabul.Subhas Bose lived incognito and was busy in drawing the detail plan of work. "About Afghanistan he wrote ......" "The German Government will have to carefully consider their attitude towards the present Afghan Government. The present Afghan Government can give much secret and indirect help to us in our work. But if they refuse to help and try to obstruct, then what should be done ?" further in his plan he wrote ......About Russia; The attitude of Soviet Russia is very important for the above work for India's independence. A German - Soviet agreement on the question of India would be exceedingly desirable. If such an agreement takes place, then we may be able to send men and materials through Russia to Afghanistan and India" (9)

In Kabul his Russian contact did not work out well. Bhagat Ram introduced himself to the German diplomats as Rahamat Khan and also met Alberto Quaroni, the Italian representative in Kabul.

After six weeks stay Subhas Bose left Kabul with an Italian passport in the name of Orlando Mazzato with the Soviet transit visa. He reached Berlin via Tashkent and MOSCOW.

Meanwhile Soviet "TASS" representative in Kabul was very active in collecting related informations about the various interesting developments of Subhas Bose's escape. The Chief of 'TASS' in MOSCOW Y. Havinson was in constant touch with Comrade Ivanov the then "TASS" representative in Kabul.

Moscow was more curious about the activities and whereabouts of Subhas Bose than any other leader of Indian national Freedom Movement. (10)

On the otherside from the Soviet Diplomatic mission in Kabul a long report on Bose was sent to the Soviet authorities by the Soviet representatives Gulyaev and KOZLOV on 5.2.1941.

....... "From the very beginning of the War between USSR and Finland, Bose criticised the anti-Soviet Campaign. It should be noted that Bose was the only leader from INC who unconditionally supported the Soviet Union. ......... Bose tried to enter the Soviet Union twice, but couldn't succeed. Bose explained to Achar Singh to approach Com. Stalin for seeking armed help for India's struggle against Independence. .........

......... In order to vouch for his intentions to seek Soviet support for India's freedom movement, his speeches should be studied and not the changes in his political principles". (11)

On March 15, 1941, Schmidt the then secretary of the German mission in Kabul met Soviet representative Kozlov in order " to obtain a visa for an Italian citizen Orlando" (12) who was obviously Subhas Chandra Bose. In course of their conversation Chmidi referred ......... "the

British home front was unstable and in particular the current situation in India was quite tense for England. This strained situation would be increased when Subhas Chandra Bose would visit Germany and Bose was a very influential figure in India". (13)

Bose left for Germany, Bhagat Ram Talwar remained in Afghanistan to carry on his secret activities. As Rahamat Khan he maintained a regular contact and collected detail informations from the German diplomats in Kanbul and as 'ROM' a dedicated Soviet loyalist conveyed them to "Zaman" or Mikhail Andreevich Allakhverdov the then KGB Officer of Soviet Embassy in Kabul. Besides this, he had one more duty to pass over all the relevant informations to the respective units of the Communist Party and Forward Bloc in India. For transmission purpose "Silver Moon" a secret pass Code was used by Subhas Bose in Germany and Talwar in Afghanistan.

In December 1942, time came, when USSR had no option but to inform her allies about their agent "ROM". This is how Bhagat Ram Talwar gave service to all the three allied forces during world war II. Strange enough that this huge net work of "Silver - Moon" secret code remained unnoticed and had never been suspected by the Germans in Afghanistan. As a result they were left in total darkness till the end of war. (14)

Subhas Bose did greatest work of his life in South East Asia. During the whole history of the British in India, it had not struck one single British General that at any stage in the future their number one enemy might appear on the Eastern frontier of India.

In 1943 before the dramatic appearance of Bose at Singapore, much speculations were going on among the allies. It was assumed by the British that Bose might leave for the East through the territory of the Soviet Union, and it was decided to intercept him on the way by approaching the Soviet authority for co-operation. On June 29, 1942 the British ambassador in Moscow Archibald Carr handed over an appeal of the British Government to the Soviet minister for external affairs V.M. Molotov.

MOST SECRET

"His Majesty's Government have good reason for believing that Subhas Chandra Bose, the notorious political Hindu agitator, who is now in Germany ......... is shortly planning to leave for the South East .........

His Majesty's Government would be grateful if the Soviet Government would take all possible steps to watch for any attempt by Bose to enter the territory of the Soviet Union, and in the event of his so doing, to detain him" (15)Netaji took over the leadership of Indian Independence Movement in South East - Asia from Sri Rashbehari Bose and shouldered the responsibility of prosecuting the war of India's liberation from there. Netaji took over the complete command of the army and reorganised Azad Hind Fauz in July 1943. He proclaimed the formation of the Provisional Government of Azad Hind. (Arzi Hukumate Azad HIND) on October 21, 1943 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands renamed as Saheed and Swarajya Islands respectively.

The recognition of the Provisional Government by the World Powers viz Japan, Burma, Germany, Italy, Thailand, Philippines, Manchukuko and also USSR declared the firm resolve of the Provisional Government to prosecute their struggle for India's freedom.

Now the question arises that how could USSR as a member of allied forces give recognition to the provisional Government of Azad Hind.

In October 1943 after proclaimation Netaji approached the Foreign Minister of the U.S.S.R. through the then Soviet ambassador in Tokyo.

Tokyo, the 16th November 1943.

ToHis Excellency the Foreign Minister of the USSR.

Your excellency,

I have the honour to inform Your Excellency that in accordance with the Will of all the freedom - loving Indians in India and abroad - and with the fullest support of all Indians residing in East Asia who number close upon three millions, and of their political organisation, The Indian Independence League as well as with the backing of the Indian National Army now stationed in East Asia - The provisional Government of Azad Hind (Free India) was established on the 21st of October 1943, with its Headquarters temporarily at Syonan or Singapore.

In communicating this information to Your Excellency, I avail myself of this opportunity to express my sincere desire that there should exist between our two Governments and our two nations the most cordial relations of amity and friendship.

I also take this opportunity of assuring Your Excellency of my Warmest esteem.

Yours respectfully,

Sd/-SUBHAS CHANDRA BOSEHead of the State, Prime Minister& Minister of Foreign Affairsof the Provisional Government of Azad Hind. (16)

Japanese Foreign Office appointed Hachiya Teruo, Envoy Extraordinary to the provisional government of Azad Hind in Rangoon. About Hachiya British Comments : " he would probably have most intimate knowledge of any matters handled by Japanese govt. and Chandra Bose". When War was over, Hachiya was in British custody and he was interrogated by the Head Quarters SEATIC, Singapore. The British War Office records claim that Hachiya was appointed as the representative of Japanese Government to the provisional government of Azad Hind

without credential. During course of interrogation Hachiya's statements prove .... that the Japanese Government did not appear to be in the habit of issuing credentials to its ambassadors to provisional governments; and ambassador by the name of KATO KOCHU was sent without credentials to the provisional government of OMSK in Siberia. (17)Orientalist A. Kolesnikov mentions in his article, " Bose strove to establish contacts with the Soviet-Leadership. With this aim in view he sent the authorised representative of Interim Government, Kato Kochu, to Omsk with the rank of an Ambassador but without the proper Official documents. There is evidence to the effect that Kato-Kochu reached Omsk" (18)When Azad Hind Fauj was sufficiently organised, disciplined and trained, Netaji moved the Head Quartersof the provisional government to Rangoon. Throughout 1944 the destiny of the patriots was pivoted at Rangoon with strong threads of penetration right on the Indian border with the war cry "Chalo Delhi". Two main approaches were opened to the Azad Hind Fauj - the one leading to Chittagong and Bengal and the other the northern route running to Manipur and Assam.Given the choice of either of there two routes decision was to march on Imphal. In March 1944 the Azad Hind troops were already in India penetrated Imphal and attacked villages on the east-part of Kohima. The monsoon however turned the tide of events and ultimately Azad Hind Units had to withdraw from Imphal and Kohima front. Meantime the war situation in general had been worsening.On July 18, the allied forces inflicted a defeat on the Japanese on Saipan Island. The Tojo Cabinet had resigned. It made no difference in so far as the provisional government of free India was concerned; Netaji started approaching to Soviet-power through various channels.In July 1944 Netaji sent his message through 'Silver Moon' code with a request of Soviet help addressed to Man Mohan Nath Kaura (probably Kanwara) Sixteen Queens Way ( Janpath) Delhi, indicating to pass over his request to the Soviet Embassy in Kabul. (19)In November 1944 he approached to the then Soviet ambassador Jacob Malik in Tokyo.ARZI HUKUMATE AZAD HIND(Provisional Government of the Independent India)

Hotel Imperial, TokyoMonday, November, 20, 1944

To His Excellency Ambassador of the Soviet Union, Tokyo

Your Excellency,Now, when I am in Tokyo, I would like to use this opportunity to see your Excellency. Looking for this, I put a task in front of myself to find through your Excellency a support of the Soviet Government in the struggle of India for its independence.

2. The fact, that now we have close connections with Axis powers in our common struggle against British and Americans does not stop me. I am happy to say that Axis powers have a very clear idea about the peculiarity of problem of India and they have kindly recognized the Azad Hind (Independent India) Provisional Government. We are very thankful for it. Besides Japan, whose relationship with the Soviet Union has strictly neutral character, even the Government of Germany has understood in full and appreciated the fact, that we, the Hindu, were interested only in actions against England and America. The Government of Germany also understood and

appreciated the fact that we were not interested in the actions against the Soviet Russia. In reality, the activity of my organization in Europe was only against England and America, but not against the Soviet Russia. It was lying in the base of our co-operation with Axis powers in Europe and in this connection we have the full understanding and approval from the side of the German Government and Fascist Italian Government.

3. I know, that there is an alliance between the Soviet Government and Governments of the England and USA now. But I am quite well understand the international policy to see that it can not prevent the Soviet Government from rendering us a support in our struggle for independence. With gratitude I recall the assistance rendered to me by the Soviet Government after I left India in 1941. I conveyed my gratitude for this to his Excellency Mr. Molotov, Minister of External Affairs, in my letter sent from Berlin, which, I hope, was received by him in a proper way.

4. During his life Lenin always from the bottom of his heart supported colonial countries in their struggle for independence. It also gives me an impulse. As I know, after Lenin's death the Soviet Government has not changed its policy concerning problems of subjugation of such countries as India at all.

5. As far as my party concerned-Progressive bloc, - I can say, that at time when the Soviet foreign policy in Europe was blamed by approximately all parties of India in 1939-1940, we were the only people who openly supported the Soviet foreign police towards Germany and Finland. What is more, we belong to the left wing of the national movement in India and we have the most progressive views on social and economic problems. Going on, our party is the only one party in India, which up to the present day is carrying on uncompromising struggle against the British imperialism in collaboration with some other revolutionary groups.

6. I would like very much to see Your Excellency and to find with the help of Your Excellency a support of the Soviet Government in our struggle for independence. As far as the type of assistance, which the Soviet Government can render to us, is concerned, that is such question which should be settled down by the Soviet Government in connection with the present military situation. I would like only to add, that we are full of determination to make India absolutely free and those Governments who have recognized the Provisional Government of Independent India unconditionally agree with us in this question. I would like to assure you, Your Excellency, in my highest respect to you and hope to get your response soon.

Still sincerely yours,

SIGNATURESUBHAS CHANDRA BOSE (20)In May 21, 1945 the speech delivered at Bangkok where Netaji spoke about the Soviet support for India. "There was a time when German armies had advanced inside Russia right up to Stalingrad. I wonder how many people there were who, in those days, could imagine that the tide would turn, that one day the Soviet Army would be in Berlin. Germany's defeat is one of the surprises of this war. Clauzewitz was perfectly right when he said that 'war has many surprises'. But there are more surprises to come, and some of these surprises will not be welcome to our

enemies. You know very well that I have been always of the opinion that if Germany collapsed, it would be a signal for the out break of an acute conflict between the Soviets and the Anglo-Americans. That conflict has already broken out and it will be intensified in the days to come. The time is not far off when our enemies will realize that though they have succeeded in overthrowing Germany, they have indirectly helped to bring into the arena of European politics another power, Soviet Russia, that may prove to be a greater menace to British and American Imperialism than Germany was. The Provisional Government of Azad Hind will continue to follow international developments with the closest interest and endeavour to take the fullest advantage of them. The fundamental principle of our foreign policy has been and will be : Britain's enemy is India's friend". (21)

This became more clear in San-Francsico conference where Molotov refused to submit to the Anglo American demands.

Netaji started to formulate his future course of action. During May-June 1945 series of meetings took place. " In course of these meetings Lt. Col A. C. Chatterjee suggested that a nucleus of the Provisional Government should be shifted to Yunan Province inorder to contact the communists who had more influence in that part of China and through this to contact the Soviet authorities in Siberia". (22)

The British WSIS report of June 1945 states " There is a great deal of task among Indian Public in Rangoon about the USSR and may are confident of a declaration of war on Britain by Russia, to whom Bose would immediately ally himself. There would then be no question of the next attempt failing. Thre has been considerable speculation regarding Russia's future position both by the Japanese and by Bose propagandists, one source going so far as to announce that Bose's PG had been officially recognised by the Soviet Union". (23)

Since the evacuation of Rangoon Bose had made many broadcasts - in one of these WSIS quotes " Bose has also spoken at length on the Wavell proposal which were described by Singapore radio as a diabolical plan to eternalize the British domination of India to strengthen the Indians war effort against Japan & her East Asiatic allies. A communique was issued by the PG on 19 June folloiwng a meeting of the Council of Ministers of 16 June. Its unanimous conclusions, as Bose himself expounded over the wireless, were as follows :" that the motive for the Wavell offer was to exploit the military success acclaimed by Britain & America in Europe and Burma and to mobilise India's support for Britain's imperialist war in the Far East.

That in the Council's view there was an additional deeper motive behind the offer. It had now become apparent to the British government that other nations e.g. Soviet Russia might in future advocate the cause of India's independence and so the British Government considered it prudent to forestall such foreign support by including the Indian people to accept compromise". (24)

In July 1945, Bose's broadcasts continued where he spoke ..." many might wonder how independence could be achieved after the recent set backs; the answer was that Though the rains here hold us back for the time being, do not forget that the roads to Delhi are many." (25)

August-16, 1945 Netaji informed 'I wish to go to Russia with some of my Cabinet members. I will go alone, if I have to. I would like the Japanese Government to see that my Cabinet members can follow me later". (26)Finally in Saigon on August 17, 1945 a meeting was held in the house of Narain Das, the former local I.I.L. Chief about which Intelligence Bureau reports "Incidentally, we have not been able to get anything on the conference between Bose and certain Japanese officers in the house of one Narain Das". (27)

After this, there was an unbelievable announcement of his death in an air-crash on the 18th August 1945 at Taipei. The news reached India on August 24, since then British became active in fact finding.

Immediately after this news broke British started searching and examining all the necessary records left by the Japanese agency Hikari-Kikan in their various offices of East Asian Centres. After a long search British could discover only one record which states few details.

COPY

SEATIC SectionIA Unit7 Ind Div ALF SIAM24 Sep (1945)

Subject : Translation of messages re-death of Bose found in a file of reports belonging to the H. KIKAN.1. HIKARI KIKAN SIGNAL RE : 'T'18 Aug Urgent to Secret

TO : OC HIKARI KIKAN

FROM : Chief of Staff, Souther ArmySouthern Army Signal 393.

Today at 1700 hrs. (17 Aug),. "T", with Lt-Gen. SHIDEI and others left here for Tokyo via FORMOSA and DATREN. Infrom Indian community of this.Depending on circumstances, I expect to return in two or three days.

2. TO : OC KIKANFROM : Chief of Statt, Southern Army.Southern Army Staff II Signal 66 20 Aug

"T", while on his way to the capital, as a result of an accident to his aircraft at TAIHOKU at 1400 hrs on the 18th, was seriously injured and died at midnight on the same date. His body has been flown to TOKYO by the Formosan Army.

I have thanked the Formosan Army for their kindness. Further I have asked that proof of his death in the plane accident - remains, photographs, etc. be collected.

As for the Centre, I am getting Staff Officer TADA, who leaves SAIGON on the 20th to take up an appointment, to provide them with a detailed report. I wish secrecy to be maintained in handling the matter.

3. HIKARI KIKAN SIGNAL RE : "T"24 Aug 1945

TO : OC Malay Branch (TN : 1 no clear)OC SAIGON EMBARKATION POINTChief of Staff, Souther Army

FROM : OC HIKARI KIKAN.

Re-death of "T". Please ensure that Indian Communities are informed of the DOMEI despatch regarding "T"s death.

4. HIKARI Message 102027 Aug '45

TO : Chief of Staff, Souther Army

FROM : OC HIKARI KIKAN

Request urgently the report on the later progress of Col "HABIB RAMAN" !

After recovering Hikari Kikan's information the British made a thorough investigative report which concludes ............. seeing that all record had been destroyed both at Saigon and Bangkok, except that in Bangkok a file containing these messages was recovered. It may be that this had been deliberately left there for the British and constituted part of the deception plan. It is rather hard to say conclusively although all sources, both Japanese Indians, are emphatic that Bose is dead. Besides, Bose took with him 4 iron boxes of gold- probably 50 1bs in weight and while taking a farewell at Bangkok he indicated that he was not likely to return to that part of the world. All this suggests that he wanted to go underground and the Japanese had undertaken to give the necessary protection to do so.

A source has stated taht after his retreat from Rangoon Bose believed that he ought to start on a new road to Delhi.

Further investigation are proceeding.

Sgdfor Maj. Gen Commander

HQ SACSEA Commission No. 1 Saigon" (28)

In the meantime Fortnightly Security Intelligence Summary No. 6 claims an INA miltary personnel in India ......"he provides much authentic inside information about INA for the Congress propaganda mill. Everything said by this man indicates the depth and determination of his devotion to "Netaji" and the goal he has given his followers. Particularly significant is his conviction that Subhas Bose is not dead but will return to lead his army at the opportune moment, and his belief that INA personnel who returned to India are biding their time until they rise against the British. 'We are his time bomb, and will burst when the right time comes. Our leader will return to lead us' ". (29)

In 1945 November and December meetings were held in Rangoon where INA members who formed majority of audience. In one meeting chair was left empty for 'Spirit of Bose' and in another the 'Spirit of Bose' was appointed chairman. The meeting continued amid shouts of usual INA slogans and speeches appear to have been along extreme INA lines.On 31st December 1945 "National Herald" Delhi reported that Subhas Chandra Bose is in Russia.

In response to this Soviet daily 'Pravada' January 7, 1946, pg6 answered in an article named 'About an Indian Comedian' by D. Zaslavskii.

The British referred it back to "Foreign Office" from Moscow in January 1946 with comments.

IMPORTANT

Pravda of 7th January prints a half column article by Zaslavsky referring with heavy Sarcasm to an article in the Delhi National Herald of 31st December 1945.

1. This Newspaper, apparently on the basis of information received from the Lahore correspondent of the Nationalist who is stated to have had the stay from an 'Unnamed Soldier' relates that Subhas Chandra Bose had fled in Russia......... This Fascist sharpen according to the Indian newspaper, is free to travel around the Soviet-Union and inspect his army of 30,000 men and has had talks with responsible representatives of the Soviet Government who have given him "Concrete assurances".

2. Information from Indian newspaper occupies one quarter of space article and remainder consists of laboured refutations of the report and accusation against the Indian newspapers of conducting anti-Soviet lying compaign". (30)

In early 1946 various informations were available relating to the alleged death of Netaji; the result was not entirely satisfactory for it revealed many discripancies, which until clarified, would be difficult to arrive at any definite conclusion.

Major Toye's confidential comments on the subject. Death of Bose in C. S. D. I. C. report .... " what is concerning as most immediately is the information which is coming in indicating that there is a growing belief in India that Bose is alive and establishing that statements to the same

effect are being made in this country and elsewhere......

Major Toye further states ....... 'It seems clear that Bose and his staff were trying to make a get way to Russia ......... Gandhi stated publicly at the beginning of January that he believed that Bose was alive and in hiding".

...... There is, however, a secret report which says that Nehru received a letter from Bose saying he was in Russia"......

.....The information alleges that Gandhi and Sarat Bose are among those who are aware of this..... In January also Sarat Bose is reported to have said that he was convinced that his brother was alive".

In the same report he writes "... The Governer of the Afghan province of Khost had been informed by the Russian Ambassador in Kabul that there were many Congress refugees in Moscow and Bose was included in their number. There is little reason for such persons to bring Bose into fabricated stories. At the same time the view that Bose is in Moscow is supplied in a report received from Teheran. This states Moradoff, the Russian Vice Consul General disclosed in March that Bose was in Russia where he was secretly organising a group of Russians and Indians to work on the same lines as the I.N.A. for the freedom of India.

Taihoku, Congress and Russian representatives in Teheran and Kabul are the most important objectives in this case as it stands now." (31)

The rumours were rife that Subhas Chandra Bose is in Russia. Finally at the request of Director of Intelligence Branch (DIB) the Indian Political Intelligence (IPI) had submitted report of this subject :

" On May 2, 1946 the Indian Political Intelligence (IPI) submitted the following note to the Indian Office Secret with 2227VOL (8) 115/24 PO1(S)2nd May 1946 5871946India Office : Miss Hanchet

The D.I.B. during his recent visit to London mentioned the receipt from various places in India of information to the effect that Subhas Bose was alive in Russia. In some case circumstantial details have been added".. (32)

The enigma compelled the British to put an end to this controversy which made them preparing final death report but unfortunately there were two death reports. Some insight may be gleaned from these reports. The two death reports with their inherent discrepanicies and the conflicting statements of two different doctors who claimed to have treated Bose in a hospital on 18 August 1945.

First, a report by the office of the Military Adviser, attached to the United Kingdom Liaison

Mission, in Japan, British Embassy, Tokyo. Drafted by lieutenant colonel J. G. Figgess on 25 July 1946..... "a very thorough investigation has been conducted in Tokyo to establish the precise details of the circumstances surrounding the reported death of Subhas Chandra Bose". (33)Sub - Lieutenant (Medical) Tsuruta Toyoshi was said to have treated Subhas Bose in the Taihoku Medical Hospital. Tsuruta had issued a Certificate showing "death due to heart failure resulting from multiple burns and shock".

" As a result of a series of interrogation of individuals ....... it is confirmed as certain that S. C. Bose died in a TAIHOKU Military Hospital (NAMMON Ward) sometimes between 19 hours and 20 hours local time on the 18th August, 1945".

What may act as a supplement to the figgess report is the statement by Dr. Yoshimi Taniyoshi a Medical Officer of the Japanese Imperial Army, who claimed to have had Bose treated under his supervision. The statement was received originally from war crimes Liaison Officer Hong Kong when Dr. Yoshimi Taniyoshi was interned at the Staneley Gaol in Hong Kong. He signed his statement at Staneley Gaol on October 19, 1946 before A.R. Turner, war crime Liaison Section, Formosa. According to Yoshimi's statement at about 23 hrs he died.(34)

Regarding the death certificate Dr. Tsuruta said he had issued one, as mentioned in the Figgess report, where as in MI-2 report a second death certificate was issued by Dr. Yoshimi where he says.. " I therefore made out a death certificate, stating the causes of death to be extensive burning and shock".

The issue appears more puzzling when we look into the KGB dossier where lies the information after the Japanese Capitulation in the first half of September 1945 the information supplied by the Soviet TASS agency from Tokyo on the basis of the British sources, Subhas Chandra Bose who was in Japan died".

During the war period from 1942 onward a Soviet agent named V.G. Sayadiyants was living in Bombay and was engaged in selling Soviet-periodicals, literature and records. He had regular contact with the members and activists of communist Party of India. In 1946 August J. Nehru requested Sayadiyants to deliver his letter personally to comrade stalin.

Sayadiyants on his way to Moscow via Teheran left a (mote) of his political observation about India to the then Soviet Ambassador Sadchikov to Iran.

The report note to Teheran 1 Sept. 1946. (35)

A brief survey of political situation in India " Britain Capitulaties....."

Where he made a detail analytical study and suggested which suitable party or organisation will be appropriate to take over the charge after India's independence.

Congress, according to him had the most strong mass base. Public in general worship Gandhi as religious figure and had fanatic love for him and faith on Nehru. The party had a very solid financial support- from the big industry houses like Tata, Birla, Bajaj, the textile magnets and

from other capitalists.

His next review was of Communist Party of India. Comrade Somenath Lahiri member of the Central Committee CPI made a short trip to USSR from July 23 to August-3, 1946. Lahiri felt that both Congress and League had defeatist attitude by joining hands with the British Imperialism.

His third investigative report is about Forward Bloc. He gave a long appriciative detail account of the formation, developments and activities of Forward Bloc. According to Sayadiyants Forward Bloc is not a party but a platform founded by Subhas Chandra Bose which attracted thousands and thousands of followers apart from present one hundred thousand membership.

One feels curious to know that what message was in Nehru's secret letter which was delivered to comrade Stalin by Sayadiyants ? What made the Soviet agent to indicate in his political note that Forward Bloc could be considered the only alternative organisation after India's Independence. Did he try to indicate something more ?

Many conjectures, speculations, incoherent reports prevail, an inquiry committee (1956) and later an inquiry commission (1972) were set up, but none of these attempts could satisfy with a conclusive proof.The inquiry would have remained unchallenged if not Lord Peter Archer of Labour Party, British Parliament persuaded with his untiring effort to make the British Government to declassify few war office Records of MI2 related to Subhas Chandra Bose, Indian freedom struggle and the role of Indian National Army, Brose's relation with USSR and Germany at Public Record office, London.

Through out the Soviet history the Soviet Scholars were either ignorant or deliberately remained silent on this subject. 'Glasnost' and 'Perestroika'could melt the seventy years ice-berg of Soviet archives which made accessible many documents related to Subhas Chandra Bose and Comintern, Soviet 'TASS' agency and many interesting documents which have unfolded a new line of research. At present Russian scholars and researchers are showing immense interest on this subject which might help to throw more light on unknown facts.

Following this the Government of India took a revolutionary step to declassify around one thousand files on Indian National Army and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

Even then still there are lacunae and many questions remain unanswered. Many documents are lying scattered & unaccessible in various archives of the world. Those untold stories of the unfinished revolution might suggest an answer to the inquiry - what really happened to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose ?

NOTES

1. Report of Indian Situation and my one and half year's work there dated 22.08.24 by Abani MukherjeeASAN : RAR 137

Indo-Russian Relations : 1917-1947Part - I 1917-1928Edited and Compiled by Roy, Dutta Gupta, Vasudevan.The Asiatic Society, Calcutta 1999.

2. Report of Johnstone to the Eastern Secretariat, ECCI on India dated 12.02.29ASAN : RAR 224Indo-Russian Relations : 1917-1947Part - II 1929-1947Edited and Compiled by Roy, Dutta Gupta, Vasudevan.The Asiatic Society, Calcutta 2000.

3. Report on India at the Tenth Plenum of ECCI, dated 03.07.29.ASAN : RAR 199Ibid

4. Eastern Secretariat Letter of dated 17.08.32 materials for the Twelfth Plenum of the ECCI on India.ASAN : RAR 200Ibid

5. Material for the XIII Plenum, ECCI, dated 14.11.33ASAN : RAR 202Ibid

6. GARF Fond 4459, Opis 38c No 3510 I - 24 - XII - 1930Moscow7. Letter of "Gordon" to Charlie Johnson dt. 23.3.36ASAN : RAR 100Indo-Russian Relations Part - II 1929-1947.

8. Letter from I Kozlov to G. M. Dimitrov Concerning Bhagat Ram, Subhas Chandra Bose & Others, dated October 1941.ASAN : RAR 345Ibid

9. War Office (WO) 208 / 804Public Record Office ( PRO ) London.

10. GARF - Fond 4459, Opis 38, Ed. Khra 118 March 4, 1941 Moscow.

11. National Archives of India, Government of India ACC No. 6757.New Delhi.

12. Ibid.

13. Ibid.

14. U. L. KUZNETS " MARODORI " Vikhodiyat iz igri.MOSCOW, Interpraks 1992.

15. The archive of foreign policy PF.0.6. 1943 OI, P-19, dt. 19.1.30.A. V. Raikov - Subhas Chandra Bose in Germany. Article.Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Commemoration Volume. Scottish Church College, Calcutta 1998.

16. From former KGB (FSB) archive. Moscow.

17. WO 203 / 4673 HS / SEAC / 591 dt. 19.10.45 Public Record Office ( PRO ) London.

18. A KOLESNIKOV - Destiny and Death. Subhas Chandra Bose.Article." Patriot " ezhenedelnaiya gazeta January No. 3 1997. Moscow.

19. From former KGB (FSB) archive. Moscow.

20. Ibid

21. Selected Speeches of Subhas Chandra Bose " Soviet Support for India " Pg. 228-229Publications Division. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India 1962.

22. CSDIC ( I ) Section Report - 1089 ON B 1189. London.

23. WO 208/804 Sec 'D' TO MI 2 (A)WSIS 10005 / 190 / GSI (b) 22.6.1945Public Record Office (PRO). London.

24. WO 208 / 804 Secret SEAC & India Command WSIS NO. 19129 June, 1945. Public Record Office (PRO) London.

25. WO 208 / 804 Restricted WSIS No. 193 July, 1945.Public Record Office (PRO) London.

26. Tatsuo Hayashida - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.His Great Struggle and Martyrdom. Pg - 106English translation edited by Biswanath Chatterjee.Allied Publishers. 1970.27. National Archives of India Secret No. C-5 Intelligence Bureau (H.D) New Delhi-3, dt. 19 Feb, 1946, New Delhi.

28. No 63 / 2 / 10 GSI (b) HQ SACSEACommission No. 1 SAIGON 18th October 1945. India.

29. WO 208 / 804 AFrom SACSEA, Public Record Office (PRO), London.

30. Indo-Soviet Relations ( N 277 - / 136 / 36 ) 371 / 56774 - 1946.Public Record Office (PRO), London.

31. COMB, SECTIONCONFIDENTIAL NO MS / 5 / 5C. S. D. I. C, Red Fort Delhi Dt. 21.1.46Subject Death of Bose.National Archives of India (NAI). New Delhi.

32. Pradip Bose : Subhas Bose and India TodayA New Tryst with Destiny (1999) Pg. 279.Deep and Deep Publications Pvt. Ltd.F-159 Rajouri Garden, New Delhi - 110027

33. Copy - United Kingdom Liaison Mission in Japan.British Embassy, Tokyo - OFFICE OF MILITARY ADVISERReport on the Death of Subhas Chandra BoseSgd J. G. Figgess Lt. Colonel Tokyo, 25th July, 1946. London.

34. WO 208 / 3812 MI2, 20 Jan 1947Register No MD / JAG / FS (A) 1223Hong Kong 19th Oct. 1946.Public Record Office (PRO), London.

35. MID. Fond 0179. Year - 19461a, 1a, d 812th Sept - 28th October 1946, Moscow.

List of Archives from which the Documents have been collected

RUSSIA :GARF (Gosudarstvennyi Arkhiv Rossiskoi Federatsii)State Archive of the Russian Federation.

MID (Ministerstvo Inostrannykh Del)Ministry of External Affairs.

RGASPI (Rossiskii Gosudarstvennyi Arkhiv Sotsio Politicheskoi Istorii)Russian State Archive of Socio. Political History.In the article marked as ASANwhich indicates Asiatic Society's Accession Number.

KGB (Kommunisticheskaya Gosudarstvennaya bezonasnost)State Communist Security ServiceThis at present FSB.

U. K :PRO Public Record Office, London.

INDIA :NAI National Archives of India, New Delhi.

Posted by Gopal Krishna at 1:04 PM 4 comments  

Sunday, February 11, 2007

Netaji Survives Plane Crash Propaganda

Report on the Justice Mukherjee Commission of Inquiry on the allegeddisappearance of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose

The controversy over the death of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose surfaced after theannouncement from Tokyo on August 23, 1945 that Netaji died in a plane crash onAugust 18, 1945. Circumstances concerning the departure of Netaji from Bangkokabout the August 16, 1945 remain unexplained.

Following Calcutta High Court order and the resolution of West Bengal Assembly,Justice Mukherjee Commission of Inquiry on the alleged disappearance of NetajiSubhash Chandra Bose went in to the questions such as:

a. Whether Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is dead or alive;b. If he is dead, did he die in the plane crash, as alleged;c. Whether the ashes in the Japanese temple are ashes of Netaji;d. Whether he has died in any other manner at any other place and, if so, whenand how;e. If he is alive, in respect of his whereabouts

Given below are the findings of the Justice Mukherjee Commission of Inquiry

Chapter 5 (Report on the Justice Mukherjee Commission of Inquiry on the allegeddisappearance of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose)

Conclusions

a. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is dead;b. He did not die in the plane crash, as alleged;c. The ashes in the Renkoji Temple are not of Netaji;

d. In the absence of any clinching evidence a positive answer cannot be given;ande. Answer already given in (a) above.