WASHINGNTON: US scientists have found the strongest evidence yet of the existence of life on other planets, the National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) reported here early today [June 19]. “The boffins” have found identical groups of 18 amino acids, regarded as the “building bricks of life”, in two meteorites. The acid groups were found recently in the so-called Murray meteorite, which landed in Ken­tucky in 1950 and were matched with similar mat­erial found last December in a meteorite which landed near Murchisonn, Australia, in 1969.

According to NASA, the discovery not only adds to the theory that life developed from simple enemical combinations but also increases likelihood of life elsewhere in the universe.

Shelling on Pakistani outposts

[Meanwhile, as reported by a staff correspondent in Rawalpindi,] The Indian Army and Border Security Force have continued unprovoked artillery shelling and mortar and machine-gun fire into several areas of East Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan has lodged a strong protest with the Indian Government against “the intrusion and unprovoked firings on Pakistan territory by the Indian Army” as a result of which “a large number of innocent civilians” have been “killed and injured”.

The protest Note, communicated to the Indian High Commission here yesterday [June 18] said Pakistan has reserved its right to claim compensation for the loss of life and property resulting from the firing.

Kennedy informed of India’s threats

[Meanwhile, as reported by agencies in Washington,] The Pakistan Embassy said yesterday [June 18] that Ambassador Agha Hilaly told Senator Edward Kennedy yesterday that India has made grave threats in connection with the situation in East Pakistan, and that his own Government is prepared to meet any situation which might arise.

An Embassy statement said the envoy and the Massachusetts Democrat discussed relief efforts for East Pakistani refugees now in India, adding: “Agha Hilaly also said that the Government of India appeared to be encouraging the refugees not to return. The Indian Prime Minister for instance, according to Press reports, has declared that India would not accept a political settlement in East Pakistan which meant the end of “Bangla Desh”, and that refugees would only return to “Bangla Desh” and not to East Pakistan. These were grave threats, said Pakistan’s Ambassador, and to be taken note of seriously.

Gen Tikka Khan statement

[Agencies add from Karachi,]The Governor of East Pakistan, Lt-Gen Tikka Khan said here yesterday [June 18] that President Yahya Khan is likely to visit East Pakistan in the middle of next month.

• Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2021*