In 1934, the Second King of Bhutan purchased arms and ammunition worth Rs 113,566 and 13 annas from the British Indian government. Approved by the Government of India, this purchase was sourced from three arsenals in India at a concessional rate of one-third the standard price. This marked a pivotal moment in Bhutan’s efforts to strengthen its defences and assert its sovereignty in an era of great geopolitical change in South Asia.
The negotiation and execution of this arms deal offer insights into the close but complex diplomatic relationship between Bhutan and British India. It also provides a peek into the logistical challenges, communication, level of correspondence and vision of the Bhutanese leadership.
Initiation of the Arms Request
The process began in early 1933, when His Majesty King Jigme Wangchuck (r.1926-1952) made the request to the British for arms and ammunition. This request was conveyed through Colonel J.L.R. Weir, the Political Officer in Sikkim (1931-1933).
On 20 January 1933, Frederick Williamson (1933-35), who succeeded Col. Weir, wrote a confidential letter (No.3 (4)-P/33) to the Agent of the Maharaja of Bhutan outlining what military stores were available for purchase.
The initial offer incl...
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