Officers must be gentlemen
Having lost the long tussle over the issue of his date of birth, it was expected that Army Chief Gen. V.K. Singh would not wage any more battles before demitting office at the end of this month. But far from going quietly with some dignity, the upright officer has fired missiles that can further exacerbate factional feuds within the Army. His missive against Lt. Gen. Dalbir Singh Suhag, who is in line to take over when incoming Chief Lt. Gen. Bikram Singh retires in two years’ time, seems aimed at scuttling a smooth succession. One of this country’s greatest strengths has been a professional and apolitical Army of 1.13 million, plus reserves of nearly a million. It’s a curious turn of events that despite one of our most honest politicians heading the defence ministry, several arms purchases scandals appear to be waiting to erupt like landmines. While there must be no compromise in preserving national interests and safeguarding India’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity, it is in no one’s interest to keep hanging dirty linen out in public.
In fighting a lost cause, a peeved Army Chief opened a can of worms, but the government has acted with utmost dignity in patiently awaiting his exit. One lesson is that honesty alone doesn’t cover all facets of leadership. It is now up to the government to restore order amongst the armed forces’ top brass, making them accountable for restoring high professional standards of behaviour, while ensuring confidentiality in matters of governance.
Comments
Exactly, peoples occupying
n.d.saha
26 May 2012 - 22:35
Exactly, peoples occupying the high seats of power and authority must guard against the temptation to hold on the chair by any means fair or foul. Preserving the dignity of a public position must be given preference to self interest. Those who are on top positions must set good example to follow by those who are in subordinate position. It is all the more expected from the people belonging to the profession of defense services.
We all wish that no more harm
Air Cmde Raghubir Singh(Retd)
26 May 2012 - 13:58
We all wish that no more harm gets done even inadvertently to the great institution of armed forces due to seemingly scorched earth policy of vendetta manifest these days.Rising to the general rank itself is singular honour which only very few officers can make.One must retire & even leave this world gracefully -being remembered for all the good work he did & how he helped his fellow men when they needed his guidance and support. Retirement is merely a comma & not a full stop -there are many opportunities if one is not tired.
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