Rawalpindi. Aug 9.—The East Pakistani leader Shaikh Mujibur Rahman will be tried by a special military court for “waging war against Pakistan” and other charges, a government statement said today.

The trial will begin on Wednesday and will be held in camera. The statement added: “The accused will be given proper opportunity to prepare his defence and will be provided with all facilities permitted in law. including engaging counsel of his own choice, provided such counsel is a citizen of Pakistan.”

Shaikh Mujib was arrested in Dacca in the early hours of March 26 after the Pakistan Army moved into East Pakistan against secessionists headed by supporters of his Awami League.

The constitutional crisis in March followed a long campaign by the Shaikh for greater autonomy for the more populous eastern part of Pakistan.

Ian McDonald writes from Washington: The United States State Department today voiced concern over the Pakistan Government’s decision. The American view was transmitted to Pakistan some weeks ago, a spokesman said. While the Nixon administration was contributing some £30m to the United Nations to help East Pakistani refugees in India, it was cautious about publicly criticizing the Pakistan Government. This has led to a crisis in relation with India.

Rawalpindi. Tuesday morning.—Pakistan is reported to have refused visas to two members of the advance party of Senator Edward Kennedy, who is scheduled to arrive today in Calcutta and on Thursday in East Pakistan to investigate the refugee problem.

The Government had no comment to make on the reported refusal of visas to Mr Dale Dehaan, a chief consul and a member of Senator Kennedy’s subcommittee on refugees, identified only as Mr Tinker.—AP.
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