Kashmir (Mahomedans and Hindu Officials).

HC Deb 01 March 1911 vol 22 c372

Mr. BURGOYNE asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will State the number of Mahomedan and Hindu inhabitants of Kashmir, and the number of State officials of these two faiths, respectively?

The UNDER-SECRETARY for INDIA (Mr. Montagu) According to the Census of 1901 the number of Mahomedans in Kashmir was 2,154,695, and of Hindus 689,073. I am unable to state the number of officials in the State professing these two faiths,

Mr. BURGOYNE Could the hon. Gentleman make inquiries and discover the numbers?

Mr. MONTAGU It is the immemorial practice of the Government of India not to interfere in internal matters affecting administration.

Kashmir (Slaughter of Cattle)

HC Deb 01 March 1911 vol 22 c372

Mr. BURGOYNE asked whether the Maharajah of Kashmir forbids the slaughter of cattle for food and the importation of beef in any form, thereby depriving not only the majority of his own subjects but also the hundreds of Europeans resident there of their most natural meat diet; and, if so, what steps will be taken to induce the Maharajah to repeal this law in the interest of his own subjects and all European residents and visitors?

Mr. MONTAGU This is a matter relating entirely to the internal affairs of a feudatory state. The Secretary of State has no official information on the subject, and, having regard to the fact that he would not propose to take any action even if the hon. Member’s allegations were verified, inquiry would not be profitable.