Mr Salman Haidar
High Commissioner of India
India House
Aldwych
London WC2 B4NA,




Dear Mr Haidar,

We have read about the recent nuclear  tests carried out by the Indian government with great disappointment.      We are writing to you now to express our outrage at your government's policy and to warn you of the negative impact which it is likely to have on the perception of India which people around the world will now have.

We do not see any real military threat to your country which could possibly justify development of nuclear weapons.  Your government carried out these tests because of internal political considerations.  In doing so India has set in motion a highly dangerous arms race which may eventually place nuclear weapons in the hands of extremist, unstable, anti-democratic regimes who lack the restraint which we still believe the government in New Delhi will demonstrate. 

We are opposed to the United Kingdom maintaining its nuclear weapons arsenal.  We also recognise the unfairness of British and US governments objections to India's policy in this respect.     The examples which India has given us are admired around the world: the Buddha, Mahatma Gandhi, the Emporer Ashoka, Vinoba Bhave and so many more.    India faces so many challenges today.   The considerable investment of skill and resources which you have put into these nuclear tests should surely have been directed at projects which contribute to India's future.

Quite apart from the various sanctions which are being imposed at government level, are you aware that India as a brand will damaged by your government's actions.   Expect lower demand for export products and fewer visits by tourists. Ultimately such developments will make India more dependent on the foreign hand which we know is the antithesis of your hopes.

Please consider this letter as coming from friends who wish you and your country well.

Yours sincerely,