On the other side of the border, at New Delhi, Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee would have been installed as Prime Minister before Mr Riedel arrives, and the time would be ripe to remind him of his commitment that the Indian position on the CTBT would be decided by the new government that took office after the general elections. Taking full advantage of the favourable mood in Washington, the Indians have played their cards exceedingly well. Not only have they held back their verdict on the treaty, but, perhaps, to test the strength of its support, have released a dreadful nuclear doctrine carrying portents for powers much beyond the region. The doctrine though severely criticised at the time ofannouncement, has ceased to find mention in the briefings of the State Department spokesmen...It would be India that would need persuading by Mr Riedel.