THE DISTURBANCES IN INDIA.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5960, 27 August 1897, Page 2

THE DISTURBANCES IN INDIA.

THE RISING IN THE NOBTHWEST. THE KHYBER PASS CLOSED. DETAILS OF THE CAMPAIGN. [Per Press Association.! CALCUTTA, August 25. The Afridi levies have evacuated Fort Alimufl, and a number of them have joined the enemy, who have burned several fprtß. Brigadier-General Ellis is marching to intercept four thousand Afridis who are approaching Fort Bara. The Queen has despatched a message to the troops at Khyber Pass, expressing appreciation of their efforts, and making inquiry regarding the wounded. CALCUTTA, August 28. Latest despatches from the frontier slate that the Afridis have effectually closed the Khyber Pass; the great northern military route from India to Afghanistan. The Oraltzais threaten the isolated British posts at Durrani. The Mohmands are reported to be planning a renewal of hostilities at Shabkadar, and another body of Afridis is moving towards the villages to the south-west of Jamrud, which is strongly held. British detachments, are watching the border defiles, their frotat extending thirty-five miles from nortlt to 80U.th. " The field telegraph, connecting the j right and left centres of the forces under Sir Bindon Blood, has avrived at Durikot, and will reconnoitre Jvarakar. Communication on the PishawarShabkadar Road has been restored. A battalion of British Infantry is ready to move from Lucknow to the Punjaub if required. Quetta reports that one of the Beluchistan chiefs, arrested on suspicion of intriguing against British rule, haß been released. LONDON, August 20. The Times correspondent states that the British troops gould easily, reopen fche Khyber Pass, but that it would be unwise, and would serve no good purpose. The Alridis could temporarily retire upon Bazar. The War Office has directed all officers on leave from India to rejoin tbeir regiments immediately.

CABUL, August 26.

The Ameer of Afghanistan held a durbar, or reception of native Princes, at which he solemnly swore that he had always maintained friendly relations with Great Britain.