Page 143 - Records of Bahrain (4) (i)_Neat

Reaction to the reforms, 1923 131

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Ah regard a No. ()/ they suggest that if Government liavo no objection they
should bo sont off umlor escort to the mainland of Qatar to tho Naim tribe,
with whom of course Bahrain lias always had relations. Thoy aro unimportant
pcoplo, Solman being almost a half-wit, and I am inclined to think that they
could do no harm there and they will be warned that their return after one
year is conditional on their behaving themselves in tho meantime.
As regards No. (2) Ali Bin Khalid who was tho ring-leader and is a
thoroughly bad character, and who has for years past been responsible for
wanton oppression of the Baharaneh in Sitrah Shaik Ilamad asks whether lie
might be soul to Kuwait. This he asks admittedly because lie is a relative and
he would like to let him down as easily ns possible. 1 am of opinion that suffer­
ing a life sentence of banishment, he would be a source of trouble in Kuwait
and almost certain to start intriguing with Bin.Suud and disaffected members
of A1 Khalifeh hero. Also banishment to Kuwait would be regarded by every­
one here ns practically no punishment. Ilamad is agreeable, to his being sent
to India if it is thought more advisable, and if possible I would recommend that
course, but think that Ilamad might then be advised to reduce the sentence to
say 10 years, conditional on good behaviour. He will have an allowance of
about Its. 250 or Its. 300 per mensem. If his deportation to India be approved,
could the Goveriuucnt of Bombay be asked to receive him and arrango suitable
and inexpensive accommodation in somo quiet station 1 I recollect some years
ago a Gulf deportee lived in a small bungalow in cantonments in Ahmednagar,
or perhaps Dcolali, to which pluec Arabs from here frequently pay a visit when
in Bombay, might be suitable. One of the servants (fi) sentenced to 3 years,
is a Najdi and under British protection. Shuik Humad would be glad if, as a
special case, both these prisoners could be received in Karachi Jail to undergo
sentence. His Government will bear maintenance costs which can be paid in
« lump sum at the outset if desired. As Bahrain Government have absolutely
no arrangements for prisoners under so long a sentence (the matter will rcccivo
the attention of Shaikh^Hamad as soon as funds will permit) and as it seems
desirable that both prisoners should undergo their punishment under similar
circumstances, I would recommend that this assistance be afforded if possible.
The moral effect will also it is hoped act us a deterrent in the future to fidawis
who arc as a,rule only too ready to assist irresponsible young members of
Klfalifeh in such lawlessness. Shaik Hamad is very anxious to be rid of both
Ali Bin Khalid and the prisoners under sentences of 3 years. 1 should be glad
therefore, if it is possible, if 1 could be given instructions in time for him to make
arrangements for their despatch by the down mail after next. It is already
too late for it to be possible by next mail.
The effect of this action by Shuiks Ilumad and Abdulla, which is a good
deal more daring than 1 had anticipated, is likely to impress on all, his intention
to maintain order. I think if I may be authorised to express to him your
approval of his uclion, both lie and Shaik Abdulla would be very pleased and
encouraged.

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LCGOQFD-30—17-10-23—OMI’S