The Army chief has been accused of crossing the Lakshman Rekha. But those attacking him have crossed the line too.
It has been a free-for-all on television and print media this past week with analysts obsessively dissecting the conduct of Army Chief V.K. Singh. Some of the commentators might have had access to the “devious” mind of the “rogue” chief, judging by the authoritative information coming the way of news consumers.
They knew, for instance, that the chief deliberately timed his interview with The Hindu – where he accused a retired Army officer of approaching him with a bribe offer of Rs.14 crore — to coincide with the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit in Delhi. But just in case this did not suffice, the trigger-happy general was also going to be ready with further ammunition: indeed, who else but the rampaging chief could leak a letter he wrote to the Prime Minister mid-March, lamenting the state of unpreparedness of the Army? Together, the bribery charge and the leaked letter containing the country's top defence secrets would shame India before the BRICS delegation: When it came to fighting wars, the “superpower” was super powerless!
The bombshell
As the person who did the “explosive” bribery charge interview, I ought to know something about its timing, and how the bribery revelation came about. I met the General at his official residence in Delhi for an hour-long taped interview a few days before its eventual publication on March 26. This time was required to fill in some gaps in information as well as to transcribe the long, meandering content of the conversation. It wasn't as if the chief was bursting with unspilled secrets. The interview, I assumed, was about the age controversy and the state of the army, and so it was for the large part. The general insisted the age controversy was manufactured — because the school leaving certificate was the only authentic document to prove date of birth, a fact, he pointed out, had been upheld in several Supreme Court judgments. Half way into the questioning, when he was specifically asked who was behind the controversy, he mentioned “the Adarsh lobby and some equipment lobbyists.” Then suddenly he dropped the bombshell about the bribe attempt. I absorbed the information trying not to show too much excitement, and quizzed him on the details. He said it was for clearing the purchase of a tranche of overpriced trucks that had no proper facility for “maintenance and service.” Also that he was so enraged by the brazenness of it all that he took it up with Union Defence Minister A.K. Antony. But Gen. Singh simply wouldn't part with more information, nor explain what action he or the Minister had taken. “Leave it,” he said.
Journalists know when they have a scoop and they also know how far to push their source. I do not know if the General knowingly concealed the scoop in a maze of information, I do not know if his intention all along was only to disclose the bribe attempt, but at that point, my overwhelming concern was that he shouldn't retract. Significantly, the “always warring” General never once blamed the state of affairs on the Manmohan Singh government or on Mr. Antony whom he appeared genuinely fond of. The chief had a standard reply to each of my questions on political graft, and on the people in government who might have been party to the corruption he was so anguished about: “I'm concerned with and will talk about only my organisation.”
I emerged out of Gen.Singh's home with the BRICS summit, still many days away, hardly in my consciousness. The bribe news hit TV channels and Parliament like an avalanche. Commentators and politicians were scandalised that a bribe offer had been made to the Army Chief. But as the day wore on, the accuser became the accused, and questions began to be raised about why the chief had not handed over the bribe-giver to the police and why he had not blacklisted the company that supplied the trucks. Valid questions, but by now a few details had emerged. The company was a public sector undertaking. Could the Army Chief have blacklisted it? Serving officers in the Army were also appalled at the assumption that the chief could have walked to a police station and filed an FIR against an officer who was now a civilian. “In the Army you report any such thing to the superior which the chief did by going to Mr. Antony.” The Defence Minister confirmed that the general had gone to him with the bribery complaint, adding though that he had advised him to act on it which he did not. This raised another question. Why did Gen. Singh not act on Mr. Antony's advice? But equally, why did Mr. Antony not pursue the complaint, and more importantly, why did he not sack the chief for glossing over such a serious matter? (It turned out later that he had received complaints about the trucks from Ghulam Nabi Azad.)
Intemperate reactions
By this time, the leaked letter had exploded, causing further mayhem. Mulayam Singh and Lalu Prasad, forming an undisguised caste grouping, hit out Gen. Singh, who was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion of the Rajput Regiment. “Sack him, sack him,” they chorused even as the Congress fielded spokespersons who despaired at the lunacy of the “runaway” chief. For god's sake, the man had leaked a classified letter containing India's defence shortcomings! The articulate Sushma Swaraj did not accuse the chief of leaking the letter but she was appalled that he had written to the Prime Minister instead of having a private chat with the Raksha Mantri: “There is always the danger that a letter will be leaked,” she said.
The noise grew into a cacophony as many voices pitched in. In this bazaar of instant verdicts, anyone could say anything and it would become breaking news. Army chief writing to the Prime Minister is Standard Operating Procedure in the Army. Similar communications take place between the chiefs of Air Staff and Naval Staff and the Prime Minister. The letters, termed by the forces as routine, are usually written at six-monthly intervals and give an account of shortcomings in order that the executive is kept fully informed on India's defence preparedness. To an outsider, these letters may appear alarmist but this is part of the drill in the services. In fact, this kind of communication happens down the line. A colonel in charge of equipment in the mechanised infantry would do similar stock-taking with respect to wastage and reserve of ammunition in communications to his immediate superior. Army commanders submit six-monthly appraisals of their respective commands to the chief and these are discussed “frankly and freely” at conferences attended by the Defence Minister and the Prime Minister.
Gen Singh's letter to the Prime Minister was similar to a letter he had written earlier to Mr. Antony which was scooped by a newspaper. Nonetheless, the “informed” discussions quietened down only after the General, away in Jammu and Kashmir, issued a statement asking for the leak to be treated as “high treason.” But there was still a lurking suspicion that he would do something rash and unpredictable, possibly disparage the Defence Minister at the ex-servicemen's rally scheduled for March 31. As it turned out, the general lavished praise on Mr. Antony, saying he had been more than receptive to his suggestions on solving the problems of armymen.
There is no doubt that Gen. V.K. Singh is one of a kind — any army chief who drags the government to court would be. His refusal to resign in the face of the government's intransigence is painful and was entirely avoidable. The General is a highly decorated officer, and has been something of a hero to his men. Some of his arguments on the date issue are sound, and yet he has done himself and the organisation – which goes to war so we can sleep in peace – he heads unspeakable harm by taking defiant positions. The General should have delivered a grand speech and made a graceful exit. That would have made the government appear vindictive and mean by comparison.
However, the unpopular positions he took on his date of birth ought not to become justification for heaping scorn and ridicule on a man who, even his critics admit, is squeaky clean. There is something about the general which is worth noting. He attacks from the front: He went to court, he gave an on-the-record interview. He is unlikely to have leaked the letter. He did not gain by leaking the letter.
Gen. Singh and Mr. Antony are both perceived to be incorruptible. Together they had an opportunity to cleanse the Army. History will record that this was a wasted opportunity.
vidyasu@thehindu.co.in
Keywords: Army Chief bribery charge, V.K. Singh bribe charge, defence purchases, Ministry of Defence, Tatra trucks purchase, Indian Army, date of birth issue
Vidya is now trying to strike a balance after colloborating with the general for the scoop,which was well planned. If “In the Army you report any such thing to the superior which the chief did by going to Mr. Antony” is the norm,why did he refer the Gen Suhag case directly to CBI, bypassing DM and MOD ? What happened to the general was that after loosing the age row, he wanted to become a martyr as the next best option to retrieve his honour.He should have gracefully resigned !
I couldn't agree more Vidya---General VK is one of a kind. A true blue
fauji who prefers frontal attack. And look at Shekhar Gupta----he does
not walk the talk. Why did he have to write the sham of a scoop (mind
you he has not questioned the integrity of the COAS and Army in his
article)when the nation is going through a fragile Politico-Services
relations? I heard Shekhar Gupta in Wellington in 2007---a holier than
thou sycophant.The way he wrote anti-forces during the pay commission
rise for the sevices in 2007. Sunday Telegraph must be right-- there
must be an Arms lobby (as well as Adarsh)who are trying to tar General
VK's image. Is Shekhar Gupta a part of that. It's anyone's guess.
The sad thing was that a man of the calibre of Gen.V.K.Singh should be ridiculed by rogues like Lalu Prasad Yadav and his ilk. Manish Tiwari and other Conress spokespersons with their holier than thou attitude are equally disgusting.
A brilliant article Vidya. Gen VK Singh is a true soldier and a great
General who should be upgraded to Field Marshal rank. The sequence of
events make me believe that this is a battle between Good (General)
and the Evil (Politician - Bureaucrat combine /Nexus. The Arms lobby /
agents of dubious arms deals are all set to throw out or defame the
honest and forthright General through covert media misinformation
campaign of misleading public at large. Media is also indulging in
Anti-National activities. The corrupt politicians and bureaucrats are
a threat to National Security. AAM ADMI its time for you to wake up
and see beyond the horizon.
Excellent. If 'The Hindu' would publish a Pune edition I would readily
become a subscriber. I am really tired of Times of India and Indian
Express.
The Army Chief has 'time' for some "Whistle-Blowing"...... He has taken
the breath out of everyone........ Let him retire soon on good terms.
This defence corruption and double even trible billing have been
happening in India from the Ex president Mr.Venkatraman's during his
position was as Defence Minister. But we have to dig from his period
to till now in the defency ministry, then only the real sinking of
indian funds may reveal each year in the budget; with this we can
match the Indian budget Nil defecit for four future generations. Will
the congres family do? Not at all, because they have already formed a
family trust to safe guard their family members and relatives for
another 8 generations.
Excellent and well balanced piece. Puts the controversy in the right
perpective. Its such a pity that the television counterparts in news
channels do not take such unbiased news coverage. Their only focus is
create a hype out of every news, build controversies, shout at the pitch
of their voices and invite people to comment who neither have knowledge
nor the context to comment.
An excellent analysis!
General's Date of Birth is the current important issue, the Ministry
of Defence corruption after India's Independence is the issue right
now. Telling the general's date of birth is not at all a violation,
if it so how many people in politics entered into Indian Ministry with
fack date of birth certificate into Parliament ( the ambedkar's house
of corruption. This you can very clearly seen in the Food
corporation of India's most of the staff produced fack certificates
only) at the time of joining. They will work only two days in a week.
Rest of the date they will demand and strike before the statue of
ambedkar. The Defency ministry should not black mailing the Army
chief in telling the date of birth is a issue. The CBI will never look
into these areas. I feel the general should take over the Indian
Administration at once keeping the Ministers and the sleeping
president away from the Parliament both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.
After several weeks, I read a balanced article on General VK Singh's issue. What a high standard of journalism has been displayed by Vidya, very unlike to cheap, sensational stories coming out in other newspapers. Kudos to the writer and well done Hindu!
hang the person who has spread base less news,this is useless and weak govt does not know any thing,they are as small as primary school childern.only one person of all mess is lady diana,india should throw her out.only beneficiery are supportting that party nationist are very disaoppited because they canot do any thing.
all rubbish forces are trying to weak united india,we should start thinking in that way who so ever come between our unity should be eliminate and who so ever try to create such news should be hang publicaly including leaders.
A soldier never quits until his death.
A very good article. Neat, clean, crisp and to the point. Good work.
I fully agree with the views of Ms.Vidhya Subramaniam.
I also feel that the General had the chance to quit twice. First he must have quit on his age issue, before going to Supreme court, which he didn't. The second chance for the General to quit was after the Supreme court mediation. He didn't do that also, which was surprising.
I feel the General lost the battle there.
One can clearly see that the Media made the General look like a Hero at first and then a villan.
Though the General may be a highly awarded General, it was very clear seen, that he was not trained to fight the sneaky war in civil life. He may have been trained to take a bullet, but he was not trained to be cunning and manipulative.
All said and done, the last Paragraph of the article gives the knock out punch.
Well Done Ms.Subramaniam.
This clarification and the final summing up are of the highest quality and the decorum of a Serious Journalist shines very well.
It is timely and you must feel proud seeing the reports appearing about various irregularities in the dealings.
The drama played out by these political clowns have made a mockery of a
honest officer. It is rare to see a honest, incorruptible higher
ranking officers. He is no politician to sugar coat public and stab
them in the back. Let us show him respect for he is heading the army of
our country. Let us stop dancing to tunes of politicians with criminal
background.
Widespread corruption, millions of dollars frittered away. people allowed to embezzle. No controls, checks; this kind of money could be used to build infrastructure, eliminate hunger, illiteracy. the journalists in a way seem to like the scam as it gives them juicy stories; there seems no hope for this country - we live in filthy conditions maybe we have become filthy ourselves.
A well balanced opinion article. It is sad that the public is unable to understand the whole scenario, considering the kind of virulent comments in earlier articles posted in this website.I hope that these issues will be solved amicably without damage to any public sector organisation
Indias Charles De Gaulle . We need him for another 10 years.
Outstanding work VIDYA SUBRAHMANIAM and THE HINDU(as always)
Unfortunately, voters and followers of these two politicians asking for
removal of the Honest General, do not read Newspapers Like THE HINDU and
have at the best access to that corrupt media which can sell their soul
for money and fame. Keep it up THE HINDU!!
We are proud to have an honest defence minister and an honest army
chief , rightly said , history will surely judge this as an
oppurtunity wasted . But there is more to this , Not that no attempt would have ever been made to do the needful cleansing, but it certainly failed and had a rather rebound effect, (a splash of mud when you are fighting in mud).A potent combination of the two honest men at the top failed to do it , then this is rather a serious scenario, which has not been appropriately acknowledged and appreciated.
Honesty is a prerequisite. Not a qualification. All are honest men. No one is competent.
Good article. Educative! Clears confusion in the mind of people of India. Great effort by The Hindu!
Once again a brilliant article published by 'THE HINDU'. Kudos and thanks to Vidya for her diligent work.Here both the chief and Defenece minister who no doubt are clean and honest has got one opportunity to get rid of corruption from the army. Punish every head however big or powerful if found guilty.
It happens sometimes when things seem stalemated. It might have happened
with Genaral, he would have apprised Defense minister about bribery
attempt and would have seen happening nothing after that.
It might have compelled general to come out and talk about it.
Babus at the MOD are the most corrupt. They are the root cause of all problem. They all should be packed and sent to siachin for a year to teach the importance of timely clearence of all pending actions and to know logical quick analisis
A timely article, that clarifies on lot of things said on television or
written about in the print. It also brings out the fact that both the
CAS and the Minister speak the truth.Both of them do not deserve
criticism, they are part of a system and they need to work within the
system. They had a great opportunity to turn around this great
organization. A missed chance. Hope Government takes unbiased stand on
the issues raised by CAS.
Every year lakhs of crores are sunk into the army from the central budget. Where do all
these money go?. Even the vice-chiefs of the army, the airforce and the navy can approve
defence contracts worth Rs50 crore. This means the army chief himself sanction
procurement parts and equipment worth 50 crores at a time. The defence secretary can
approve deals worth Rs75 crore; the defence minister deals worth Rs500 crore; the
ministry, along with the finance ministry, deals worth Rs1,000 crore; and only the cabinet
committee on security can approve deals over Rs1,000 crore. All of them including the chief
are part of this corrupt system.
It is appalling to see that now a days one of the pillars of Democracy"The FOURTH ESTATE" is so committed and bought out in its reporting and analysis of happenings, one could predict what would be the approach to any happenings and what commited stand the media would take. The electronic media hac completely sold itself out to the "sharing of the spoils" philosophy-its panels and probes are PLANTED to take the AAM ADMI on to the "FOOLS PARADISE". Nothing could be taken on its Face value, and for anything and every thing there is an HIDDEN AGENDA.
I see this piece, though nicely done, as an example of friction between the "print media" and "electronic/visual media". Both have their strength and weaknesses. Discussion in any type of forum is bound to "help" not hinder.
Army Chief has done his duty by informing Hon'ble Prime Minister as Defense Minister has failed to perform its duty well.The leakage of the confidential letter has caused great harm.IB has stated that the letter was not leaked by Army Chief, so the black sheep is some where else.There were stories of security lapses in media but no one has taken it seriously.The leakage episode is serious & there is every hope that enemy has entered on our house & we are sleeping.Over hauling of PMO,Home Ministry & Defense Ministry should be done on priority basis.The antecedents of all persons working in these organizations may be big or small should be checked & screened.
The problem with the Government is it is clueless on how to act on corrupt and corruption. It has 14 ministers listed for bribe/crime/corruptions cases. One of them might be involved and taking action against them might make the government fall. The problem now is ego of Congress has become more than the prestige of India as a nation. Shame to live and being called an Indian nowadays.
'India is the largest democracy' does not mean automatically that vociferous representatives even if they are in parliament are apostles of democracy. More often they demean their exalted position - one that is meant to serve the people of the nation - and take it to ludicrous heights of cacophony and display of
unruly kindergarten behavior. Yes. India may be the largest democracy but the crop of its prominent citizens especially the representatives have over time become more and more decayed - has caught the rot of dishonesty, guile and moral turpitude almost beyond remedy.
Only when the common stock is generally good can the representatives be good. What is needed is a kick to the collective conscience of the electorate and its representatives (alas they are unfit to be collectively called leaders. Perhaps this article will contribute to that series of 'kicks in their backs'. Hats off to this courageous journalist who did not shy away from putting things in the right perspective.
The two stand high by themselves, but difference is one of them is governed by
mother of corruption - Congress. That explains the clash of interests. Mr. Manmohan
Singh is also clean per se, but so many scandals under his nose? If you look at the
whole picture, there's a nice plan in work - clean facade hides what's going on
inside.
Great article! Only "The Hindu" can do it and will do it.
It is the message not the messenger that matters. General Singh may have mishandled his public relations, but has done a valuable service to the country by raising important issues. In 1959, General Thimmayya resigned as army chief over Defense Minister Krishna Menon's refusal to take the Chinese threat seriously. The rest is history. One hopes Indian leaders have learnt from that history and will not repeat it.
Brilliantly written article. I must commend you Vidya on the manner of expression and flow of your article. The purport and the intent of the article being clear, I however am saddened that the timing of the article is a tad late in preventing the avoidable criticism and scorn that was heaped on an honest soldier. One must always remember that the symbolic white, symbolising good is easily stained. That is precisely why the stand taken by the General has only increased my respect for him. For those who blame him, I ask, 'What has he Gained?' Where generally retiring generals look forward to a governor's tenure & therefore keep the govt in good humour, General Singh has everything to lose. Maybe it requires something more than commonsense to understand the depth and magnitude of a soldier's feeling for his motherland. Only those who have actually been in the habit of risking life & limb for their nation will understand. It is a motivation beyond the ordinary...they are TRUE soldiers...
I am glad that Gen V.K.Singh has brought the issues of corruption to the front. As far as the age row is concerned i feel that it should not be made as a public debate but a matter between the general and MOD. The argument that he is a general and therefore he needs to be under the microscope is ridiculous.
What is interesting to observe is the slandering machinery being effectively used by the corrupt politicians.The real issue of corruption is being pushed under the carpet while so much energy is channeled on the timing and motives of the whistleblower. I am glad the issue of corruption in the army/MOD has become a subject for discussion.
Nice timing Vidya Subrahmaniam! Your last words sums up aptly 'History will record that this was a wasted opportunity.' Thanks for writing this post and clearing the air on what exactly happened.
A balanced article.It puts things in perspective the hollowness of our media and political class who lack the vision to discern the game being played by unscrupulous elements to sell our country"s prestige and wealth.Kudos to Vidya for upholding the ethics of journalism. Surely,this Chief Of Army Staff is made of a sternar material!! I wish that the Indian Armed Forces continue to throw up such fine Chiefs and make us all feel proud.Amongst the rot and morass of Print and Tv media, it is heartening to have a credible newspaper like " The Hindu"! Rock on Hindu!!
Kudos to the pen master(not a pen pusher)! Beautifully articulated article ,unbiased & so appropriately worded to make an AAM AADAMI comprehend without hardening its nerves! However,the journo has not come out decisively by pinpointing & fixing any responsibility &/or accountability precisely,with absolute clarity, offering suitable suggestions to settle the unsettled muddying waters ,flowing & gorggling unabated ,continuously ,never stopping :yes it might soak into when entering the sandy dunes ,eventually; after the chief bids bye-bye!
Dear Vidya,
At the outset let me compliment you on such an honest and refreshing opinion.
After all only honest person can understand the trauma presently being faced by the General. Unfortunately a large majority of our literate population cant fathom the gravity of the situation, thanks to the practice of selling sensational news".
Reputed dailys and Magazines have gone about vitriollically lambasting the very man who,in fact, must be respected for his courage to stand up to our Corruptocratic system.
Honest indiviuals are a dying breed; let us each take some time out ,from our making money and cribbing about the "system",to praise the honest efforts of this man to bring accountability to the system.
Hoping fervently that a day comes when the buck stops somewhere in our "demoratic system" and honesty is vaued once again.
Best Regards
Can't help carrying the impression that Gen Singh has not shown the
level of maturity required for a person in his position in this country.
There are a number of areas of weakness in this country as in any other
and I question Gen Singh's methodology of dealing with it.
Friends, be not dogmatic.The supposed trucks were to be bought from the
Government of India concern. Who needs the bribe & who demands it? How
is it accounted as every deal is computerized? All is unnecessary and
foolish development only to pose himself (the G) as honest having the
benefit of double date of birth. Even the rivals of Antony the DM say
he is honest.
Vidya has done a job as a journalist to clear some missing links and helped to know the real face of the lobby. About the age controversy we have not forgotten how the mattewr was decided with the saint advice of a Justice in the court room i.e.' Wise men are those who move with the wind'. Should Genrals also do it? or should citizens follow the advice?
The disclosures by the General are the result of his mistrust in the
‘system’ he is working in. He is an honest officer, intelligent and
competent to have progressed to become the Army Chief. The deep rooted
corruption and fraud pervades the cross section of the Government and
Defense establishments are no exception. The General during his long
illustrious career, privy to instances of large scale vandalism, has
been restrained by the corrupt ‘system’ that flouted norms and
procedures to serve the interests of individuals and people in power
for wrongful gains and frowned upon ‘whistle blowers’, even to the
point of silencing them. General Singh would have had the maximum
possible tenure as the Chief, but, this would not suit the rogue
elements in the ‘system’. The age issue was exploited to curtail his
tenure in office. That was the ‘last straw’ and the General would no
longer tow in line. Much to his own reputation, he certainly has done
a noble service to the nation.
Thank you for clarifying everything about the interview with Army Chief. It is now
clear, how much damage the electronic media can cause to an honest man,for the
sake of channel's TRPs or just to be on the government's side. The sad part is, by
and large the illiterate "aam aadmi" will never be able to read this article to know
the real facts. But, it must be said that the Defense Minister was honest in
admitting that the General had in fact already brought the bribery issue to his
notice, but he did not take action since it was not in writing. Any other Minister (or
politician) now seeking the Army Chief's ouster would have, perhaps, conveniently
denied the matter ever having been brought to his attention. Unfortunately for Mr
Antony, there was already a letter on the subject from one of his own colleagues as
well. Anyhow, thanks once again for the article/clarifications. The country owes its
gratitude to this honest Army Chief.
Thank GOD, Mr.Brajesh Mishra is no more NSA of India. He deserves exemplary punishment for his casting aspersions on the General.
Its reassureing to know that even now there are jornalists who belives that journalism is a service rather than a business. A well written article clearing the dark clouds surrouding the most respected institution in the country. Hats off to the author.
A very balanced article Vidya and it does throw enough light on this
sordid saga.Gen.Singh could have resigned and walked away into the
sunset,but he chose to stay and fight against a cartel so strong that
even letters to the highest office could be leaked,a cartel so strong
that it even managed the constitutionalists to come out defending the
civilian authority(as if it was in danger!!).Gen.Singh may well be
remembered as the man who started the operation to rid our defence
establishment of it's ills.He might lack in statecraft but he sure as
a soldier stood up and fought,lets hope future Chiefs and Raksha
Mantris can team up and rid our nation of this debilitating malaise.
Congrats Vidya. Great work. We are proud of the Army chief, The Hindu
and yourself
well well, any one from any establishment raises concerns or confronts the govt made up of .. well less said the better, should resign, be put behind bars.
What locus standi does Sushma or Laloo or LK have to damage institutions, they are the ones who should be behind bars.
Now lets go to the Baboos who run our Ministry of Defence, who stall, decide and block what is necessary and create red tape to show power.
how can a generalist beaurucrat or a neta decide what is critical to Country's security.
I guess all of us who want the Gen to exit for being honest, how much would you stand up for your self and what you believe in and what is right for your profession, some of you would, and incase you saw a whole bunch pushing you for resignation, you would realize what you are doing to similarly to the Gen
Bottom line, if you want to align your self with Anna, this act is bigger than 3 million Annas, this is for national integration and secuity. Dont pooh pooh it sitting on Lap top
I am sorry Vidya. You have allowed the standards to slip in your quest for a sensational coup. It was incumbent on you to verify the reported conversation with Anthony from Anthony himself, who is holding the high office of Defence Minister, before you let slip the General's version of his conversation with the RM.In the process you have portrayed Anthony as a weak leader and a cartoon character. Verifying the conversation would have exposed VK Singh as a complainant without the gumption to follow up, or willing to strike but not wound.
I am sad to see, in the current weakened state of the polity,even responsible journalists like you are letting the guard down.
An impressive and balanced article by Vidya Subramaniam. The noise in the TVs is a classic example of not enough in depth reporting. Sad to see such media have much stronger hold on public mind than sane balanced reporting. As for the COAS and the dfence minister they both come out much more human and reasonable.But there is one fundamental thing in today's India. Appearances are more important. And everyone wants to show harmony when the need of the hour is for those who have convictions should stand up and be counted.
A good article, except for a couple of items. Gen Singh simply could not act on the retired officer giving him a bribe. That would be asking a witness to a crime to head an investigation into the crime. Defence Minister Antony also knew this. As for the age issue, it has been ongoing for many years even before Singh reached the top office in the Army. Mr Singh has done the Army proud by attacking the political class. Though incorruptible, Mr Antony is certainly responsible for inaction and poor decision making skills in Defence matters.
The article is a refreshing breath of fresh air .... Given the motivated and malicious reporting around this issue. The chief is doing a service to the country by addressing festering problems in our defense preparedness ....... It is the beaurcrats and politicians that want to hide the issues as their incompetence in providing the armed forces the weapons and equipment will the be exposed.... The fact that our air defense is outdated is known to every defense planner in china and Pakistan ..... It's just that we the Indian people have just found out...
This is a new and comforting interpretation of the controversy. But why it is too late?? The interviewer should have clarified the issues about timing and the 'hidden excitement over a scoop' a bit earlier. Still there are missing links - issue of bugging and direct reference to CBI. Nevertheless, thanks for breaking the conspiracy of silence of the 'well-and-closely-informed' persons.
This article by Vidya clears the air a lot. However, I do not agree that both RM and COAC have done disservice to the Army and the nation in general. Media has gone completely berserk. It is Media and the public that has to learn the lesson. We need not dramatize everything and Media has responsibility to protect country's honor if BRICS summit was to take place. Media can not behave in an anti-national manner like it behaved during initial days of Commonwealth Games. Timing,cacophony and the tone are all important. As for Army, COAS has done a great job by placing the issues (which are by and large known and debated for a long time), before the country. It is now upto PM to take effective action on states-craft and governance front. Being honest, loving each other and not being disrespectful etc are all fine but irrelevant in the long term. Political leadership of the country needs to find a rightful place for these honest but useless politicians (and economists)! Thanks Vidya!
'Come what may' is the attitude of real soldier and general V.K Singh is just doing that. Seldom we find people who muster the courage to tell the truth and stand by it. Even after so much pressure from political circle , he has not retracted from his stand and this shows that he is not afraid to tell the truth. 'Unfortunately truth hurts'! and this time again it is the politicians who may get hurt if all the details of defense procurement adjustments tumble out of the cupboard. For example Sushma swaraj , who had said Reddy brothers ( bellary mining mafia ) are like her own children doesn't have any ethical right to comment on a person who is in charge of the INDIAN ARMY , where in just that position deserves utmost respect. There are army men ready to lie down their lives for safeguarding our country and people and there are people like 'politicians' who are scavenging the beautiful country of its wealth and health.
In Chanakya Neeti (the politician's thumb rule) soldiers, police force and foolish citizens are means to achieve power, fight their (read as politicians) wars and die for them in the pretext of dying for their country. This document is out in the open since 2300 years and yet the citizens are not looking things at that angle. And if you looks in that angle and read this lovely article by Vidya, it all makes sense. General was the thorn who tried to purge out armed forces with corruption and AK Antony was the crusader of anti corruption in Congress. Truly a wasted opportunity. Dark forces win again.
The author seems to have a soft corner for the Army Chief. Having done the interview earlier with the Chief in which the bribe matter was blurted out, she now wants to gloss it over saying that he stated it in a manner as if it is a run-off-the-mill stuff. Surely a Chief can not talk like that and a Leading reporter of a Popular National Daily take it in such a manner. Its all shameful and disgusting to see all this happeing in Army and in Journalism.
It is sad that well known journalists, TV anchors, retired bureaucrats
and Services officers , in addition to politicians, both honest and
corrupt, venture to air their opinions and views on current topics,in
print and via electronic media, with little knowledge of the real
background, processes and ramifications of the concerned issues or
subjects, having done little or no research.
Are we Indian readers and viewers so stupid to raed and listen to all
this drivel and breaking "news"?
I am afraid we are.
Or how could we have elected, during the last sixty years, Goverments
after Goverments, who were not capable of passing effective Anti
corruption legislation?
Yes a stupid electorate deserves a stupid Goverment.
It is sad, pathetic and true. India needs to change and accept change,
in whatever form it comes.
There can be many reasons that this issue surfaced like this but the point that is indespensable in these turn of events is that the curse called corruption has also entered in the realm of defence. Corruption at any place is harmful for the entire nation though momentarily it can satisfy few individuals but the fact that it is also entering an institution like army is really sad. It is high time that strict steps should be taken to control this matter and make sure these kind of things don't happen again rather than criticizing and seeking the head of the man who unfolded it. The Army in chief is totally correct in his approach of unfolding it via media since his prior reportings of the matter to his superiors went in vain. All in all a job well done by the chief.
Genral V.K. Singh is in news for last two months.And after reading a lot about all the controversial situation .I am not able to take stand who is right and who is wrong.Why he is hitting this mess at this point of time.He's been the chief of army for last two year..why did he raised his DOB issue at the last period of retirement,why is he hitting on corruption at this point.If he had been on cleaning the army he could have started 2 years back and have achieved lot of success.It feels good that atlast someone have spoke that to before public.Lets see how much our goverment do to save the respect ,trust of people,belief on transprancy of governance OR this mayhem will go just like a lot of issue has been faded away in course of time...
It is these kind of reports that makes me to keep faith in newspapers. Well done !! unfortunate thing is that neither this report nor its details will not be highlighted by other news medias !!!
Thanks for this well written opinion on the Army chief episode. It seems like people affected by anti-corruption investigations, other than the General or the Raksha Mantri, are trying to drive a wedge between the two and are feeding the media frenzy in this issue. It is sad however that the UPA government does not have the skill to negotiate such issues more gracefully and in a manner which maintains the dignity of both the armed services and the government. Issue after issue is dealt with arrogance by Congress party spokespeople, who in the guise of defending the government, are chipping away at the legitimacy of the UPA government as a whole. On the issue of defence preparedness, it is well known to any observer of the defence arena of the lack of equipment or what ails our arms procurement process; Further, do the intelligence services of foreign powers need a leaked letter to the prime minister to learn about Indian defence posture?
Well written, Vidya.It has helped clear the air.Keep up the good work.
The author is known for her investigative journalism and this one is no peculiar to her. Kudos to her for bringing such an article and having kept the readers informed as to what had happened between the executive and the Military chief makes an Interesting reading.
A well balanced good article. Thanks to Vidhya Subrahmannium and the Hindu. It is unfortunate that the bribery issue and others came to light in the post period of the Date of Birth controversy of the Army Chief. The Ministry of Defence and the Govt. of India was very much wrong in their assertive stand that the Army Chief must retire on 31st.May 2012 where as he need to retire from service only on 31st.May 2013 as per the Date of Birth of Mr. Sing recorded in his School Leaving Certificate.Mr. Sing could have been given a chance to rectify the inadvertent mistake he comitted in recording his date of birth in his submission to his organisation,years back. Had the Aadarsh Flat and other issues had not come to light there would not have been any date of birth controversy as being widely discussed today. Early exit of Mr.Sing from Service is desired by many vested interests.
This has been clarified in this article that General Singh informed the
PM and DM as a routine process and also he raised his voice against the
corruption in Army. Also, it is a responsibility of the Electronic Medea
to do sufficient research on a news before malifying the image of a
person with such a high Dignity. It takes whole life to reach that level
and to become a Hero of heroes (soldiers)
Ms. Subramanium’s interview with General V K Sigh falls definitely well within limits of etiquettes of journalism, but can the same be said of the leaking of classified information between the PM and Army Chief to public domain which certain media personnel had indulged in. For an average Joe, the way Visual Media conducted during past week is nothing but sensationalism, each channel was competing with each other to outsmart ,thus to almost create a war kind of atmosphere between the GOI and the Army and that too, at a time when several distinguished Visitors were in the Capital to attend the BRICS summit. It is really heartening to note both the General and the DM shown exemplary maturity during this period at least, but can we honestly say the same about our Visual Media personalities and their so called expert commentators barring a few!!! Let us pause and think for a while, is there something fishy with our media as well!!
The matter is certainly not something that can paint India into a corner as a nation. All the world knows we are presently going through a phase of development of the nation where we are seeking to eliminate waste of productivity, incentive and initiative by way of corruption. Eliminating corruption, to a great extent, if not entirely, will dramatically increase the usage/wastage ratio of governmental expenditure - defence spending included. If two reputedly clean people were forced to go on a collision course, as it happened with Anthony and Singh is because the Army is the customer while the MoD (BEML is an MoD company) is the supplier. The General, true to his stand, did not pass the trucks deal, he blocked it. We do not know the Anthony side of the story yet. Reckless 24x7 tv channels and ill informed politicians seeking political gain and limelight have over played all this. The General and The Hindu have both done a good job.
While complimenting Vidya for her excellent coverage of the ongoing controversy, I have a point to submit - does it help to rock the boat in India? To my mind, it does not. Our country's entire administration is run on two constituents, corruption and criminalisation and this dual scourge's font is our highest authorities from where it seeps down the line. In the normal course, whistle blowers are "eliminated". So I think the General has done more harm to himself in the long run. You simply cannot fight the establishment and survive. Yes, what the General did would have been successfully followed up had India not been in the top bracket of the World Corruption Index for years on end and in the bottom one in Human Development.
It is sad that the issue of the defence deal has one again cropped up when are strengthening out bilateral and multilateral relations with our neighbours and major economies of the developing nations like China, Brazil, Russia and South Africa. The intelligentsia and the top official should engage in thinking of how to harness the opportunities at our doorsteps and the issues of the defence matters should be dealt in a more judicious manner. It is not only necessary to crack down upon those who leaked the defence matters in public but also those who are involved must be brought under the hammer of the justice and a standard must be set forth so that no official no matter how high ranked he may be, he cannot escape the long and strong claws of the law. It becomes imperative from both sides to keep a balance between the sensitivity of the issue under consideration and reputation of nation. A strong, impartial and committed defence forces are the backbone of a nation. Jai Hind...
Beautifully written article clarifying so many issues. Let's not hype it beyond it's dimension...
This government is a wasted opportunity for the Indian democracy.
Criticisms lamented on General is a proof of the fact that eventually whistle blowers who bring out the corruption in the system become victimized and the people who actually indulge in corruption escape without any or only minor punishments.
Rather than criticizing General for his actions we should do soul searching to find out how we can remove rotten apples from both our army and civil establishments.
Well written article (kudo’s to “The Hindu”) both minister and Army
general having impeccable clean record. As mentioned it is a wasted
opportunity, we ought to treat age controversy and current one on a
different plane.
The government and opposition instead of going after minster and Army
chief should take a note of their track record consider using their
service for the country.
Vidya, I don't understand why should an Army chief restrict himself to 'a grand speech and a graceful exit', when he has reasons to defend himself and his position in the law of court! The case on age row has, in fact, set important precedence for future in the oragnisation. It also reflected the government's mishandling of the issue, like many other instances, spilled over in inaction controlling corruption in armed forces organisations. UPA II is a good example of lobbyist hitman's infiltrating rampantly in the government, where several ministers' themselves act as lobbyists or their pawns.
In this situation, it is important to guard the whistle-blowers, the General in this case, from the vindictive campaigns by the sections of bureaucracy and politicians with vested interests (like dubious Brajesh Mishra et al). This article is worthy for this effort.
What ever argument General V K Singh and his supporters put forth,
one thing is clear, that no one had ever inflicted such a great damage
to the prestige and morale of Indian armed forces than the General.An
army chief who wasted his energy and time in getting his DOB
corrected in his favour and even went to the Supreme Court against the
Govt didnt find time to take prompt action against a retired junior
officer whom he alleged to have offered bribe to him.He should have
quit when he lost the DOB case. Without doing any thing to modernise
or procure essential arms to strengthen the army after becoming the
Chief, at the fag end he writes to the PM about the inadequacy of the
army.As Brijesh Misra commented in an interview, Gen. V K Singh will
be counted as the worst Chief that Indian Army ever had.
Well done General Singh. I am glad Vidya Subrahmaniam has clarified matters. Politicians should stop slandering the General and take steps to remedy the situation he has made the nation aware of. As for Sushma Swaraj, who we are told is a BJP candidate for PM, she ought to realise that defense and intelligence chiefs have long had (and for good reason) direct access to the PM.
The author seem wanted to strike,but not to wound either the Major V.K.Singh or Mr.Anthony. She ought to have put many more pertinent questions to elicit more details on so many messy things about defence.Wonder why the author was selective and very cautious,not to cross the Lakshman Regha,set by herself on her. It is known whther the author sought the interview with the General or the General sought the interview with the popular journal like the Hindu. Any way, something wrong in New Delhi from the days of VKK.Menon.
At last the can is opened to show that it is full ofworms!The general should be rewarded with BHARATRATNA !
As the chances of war in the subcontinent are simply not there,all so called TOT deals of defence ministry be opened for public scrutiny to see how the nation and its people have been looted!
Also the old OFFICIAL SECRETS ACT be thrown in dustbin through even constitutional amendment. No heaven will fall if it is done rather people will know the truth!
Vidya, kudos to you for a well written piece. I have a differing point
why the Chief should not resign.
It is unlawful to 'suggest' in public as to who leaked the Chief’s
letter to the PM. We expect a more mature response from the likes of
our 'Spokespersons' and those of the ilk in this regard. Worst has
come to light in the past through 'sources' the media always seem to
have in high places. The message (known to all for decades except our
MPs it may seem)in regard to the under preparedness of the third
largest Army in the world, which for decades has been an open secret,
‘swept’ under the carpet by the MOD, is much more important to
National security than the messenger - who after all is a soldier and
so many soldiers routinely lay down their lives in the line of duty.
Shoot the messenger if you must but act on the message. Or will this
piece of news about soldiers dying on a regular basis in the line of
duty also startle the ruling powers that be.
There might be some personal reasons behind the General's claim. But
whatever may be the reason, after the investigation some of them are
proved to be correct. As long as they are true, I do not find any good
reason to sack him. We, the people of India deserve to know these things
because big part of our country’s budget is allocated to Defence. We
also have to look at the kind of ministers who are raising their voices
to sack the general (Mulayam Singh and Lallu Prasad Yadav), We all know
about their reputation towards corruption.
Congrats Ms Vidya, You have presented a well balanced article. Keep up
the work!
It is regrettable that an honest General is hounded by many in media for interview or letter he has to write to PM and DM.
The writer has performed the real duty of a responsible citizen, not just that of an honest journalist. The MPs should not enjoy Parliamentary immunity if they talk nonsense about the army, navy or Airforce chiefs or even about Supreme Court judges. The two scamster Yadavs and persons of dubious reputation like Brijesh Mishra should be proceeded against for defamation by the army.
If General not given the interview to Hindu then the corruption in Army purchase(Defence ministry) not come out i know there is lot of corruption in army purchase, previous when i work with leading Loader and Excavator company of India. there product supply to Army with almost double the price what they sell in the market. Army is not corrupt but the Defence Ministry.
I don't agree with the argument that the General should have kept quiet or that he should have resigned.I am glad he has spoken out and stood his ground,unlike many others.This country is suffering more because of the silence of the honest."The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
With all due respect to Ms Subramaniam (Brajesh Mishra's) call for the General's resignation with pay and pension is correct. Gen Singh has painted himself into a dark corner. Even though he may be beyond reproach, the trust in him has been lost. His word is being questioned even if hindsight will prove him innocent. He himself is to blame for his current predicament. He has mismanaged his term in the office on his last days and his legacy is one that will not be fondly remembered despite his yeoman service. Mr Mishra's call for his early leave is Management 101, whereby a member of an organisation who has lost trust and is under a cloud, should not be allowed to linger in a critical post. It is plainly evident that no decisions of a critical nature will be made by Gen VK Singh for the rest of his tenure. It is only common sense that Gen Singh leaves. One cannot question the integrity or the soundness of Mr Mishra's call for the General's resignation.
I am directly urging author with high degree of respect, " why you didn't come up with article earlier"? I don't want to extend any virtues to army chief as the write up seems to suggest. But my contention is that before-29th-March publication of this article could have done a great job to let army chief not fall into an orbit he had never aspired for. The timing issue could not have even arisen had media known the interview was recorded few days before even 26th March. Like you I am sure General too wouldn't have considered the BRICS summit to put this forth. You must have watched how news anchor went on crying to put chief behind bars and portrayed him like a villain who attempted to denigrate the nation by disclosing the bribery attempts just before BRICS leaders. Event was portrayed as army vs civilian. I can say it's an act of omission by The Hindu. "Anyway this will give new direction to to army-Antony discourse" I can bet.
The age row has to be seen in context with the current row on corruption. Assuming that General VK Singh is a patriot, how would a person in his situation react if he knew that the army chiefs following him will be corrupt, and that after him it will be 'business as usual'. He tried to prevent that by retiring later and as that did not work, try and bring the corruption in defence purchases to the fore, so it would not happen again. The army chief deserves the nation's gratitude, and all the protection accorded to a whistleblower. In reality, he will be the only one who will never become a governor of a state, an ambassador or the president of the country. Those jobs are always reserved for lesser mortals who 'toe the line'.
There might be some personal reasons behind the General's claim. But whatever may be the reason, after the investigation some of them are proved to be correct. As long as they are true, I do not find any good reason to sack him. We, the people of India deserve to know these things coz big part of our country's budget is allocated to Defence. We also have to look at the kind of ministers who are raising their voices to sack the general (Mulayam Singh and Lallu Prasad Yadav), We all know about their reputation towards corruption.
LO,thePRIZE goes toVidya Subhramanyam!
It is nice that you came up with the background stuff on the
interview. Too often we have people rushing to conclusions before
having the entire facts on hand. I am sure was till have a lot to
unearth before we can really form a responsible opinion.
But what often amazes (annoys?) me is this shoot-the-messenger
reactions. What is of primary concern is whether the allegations
made by the General are true. Then comes the motive behind the
disclosure, the delay in it, the action or the inaction that
followed.
We are nowhere near addressing the real question of wider
significance (except ordering an enquiry) that of the graft charges
that compromise national security.
Speculation grows in the asbence of facts, and some speculators count on an information vacuum and spin the story to promote their interests. Vidya, India will thank you for sticking your neck out to state the background facts, beyond call of duty, which should put an end to the speculation on "timing".
As to why the General preferred to "Leave it", or Antony preferred to act only on written complaints, I have an explanation. In India we have a culture in which whistleblowers are vilified and crucified. We have become so cynical that we must manufacture a hidden motive when there is none. It is only natural that people will be extremely circumspect, and not at all forthright.
The result of all this has been the greying of both black and white into a uniform grey... we can no longer discriminate. That is the end to 'vivekam' (I can't think of a word in English that expresses that powerful concept). There is much work to be done before India can awaken from its current state.
A soldier, a commando (first commando to become chief of army staff btw!) who has trained to stand his ground and fight all his life, I would expect him to stand and fight. I'm rather displeased and shocked that after the quiet and rather timid response of Gen Thimmayya to resign in the face of a joint Nehru, Krishna Menon hounding and the subsequent thrashing that we received at the hands of the Chinese, you would recommend or even wish for the current chief to resign!
I am, for one, glad that the general is fighting and ensuring that the sordid saga is in the limelight and makes more people aware of the cesspool that defense procurement and preparation is in our country. Woe be the country when the army chief quietly acquiesces to the political class without thinking of whats best for the country!
Since we were children we have always been assured that the Satya Mev Jayate but in actual life I have found that it is the the falsehood which wins. And Now I am 69 years old
A very well written and balanced article. it reaffirms my faith in our
journalists. Vidya, keep up the good work. we need the fourth pillar of
democracy to have reinforcement like you.
naturally the corrupt MP wont like the honest men in position hence all
the barking in Parliament.Hence Anna wants a proper LOkpal and
independent CBI not (Congress Intelligence Buro)
This whole episode is so ridiculous that it shows a big hole in the
communication conduct or policy between Army and ministry. How they show
themselves as a Indian representative, if they do not have basic
intellect that how to handle the grim situation without putting stain on
country's reputation.
The Army Chief has had the courage to bring the facts to the notice of the Nation. He should be congratulated. Corruption anywhere in the country must be curbed. The government at the Center does not know what to do?
There is difference in saying that -
1.There is corruption in the army and
2.There is corruption in procurement of armaments,ammunition and other items required for the army.
The latter is believed to be persisting since past few decades. Hence the statement by the author that the opportunity to cleanse the corruption in the army by the General and Defence Minister has been wasted may not be correct. History alone will record what really happened.
The article lays out the details and logistics of military
functioning. Rightly, the author concludes that both the Defence
Minister and the General wasted an opportunity to cleanse the army.
Along with our bureaucracy, courts, politicians, political parties
generally, the media must take some of the blame and learn to be
humble and self-regulate on a continuous basis. Not a day passes by
when sections of the media splashing a story, titillate the senses and
then forget the issue. Inconvenient questions are never asked,
critical issues are treated with benign neglect and certain people in
power are NEVER taken to task. One national English daily claiming
humongous circulation (not the Hindu)has over 80% content focusing on
Bollywood bimbos. Another English daily had a story on a Bollywood
actor insuring his behind and carries news of routine profanities of
other "stars". Thanks to certain institutions, the rot is spreading
fast.
I greatly applaud the army general and would like to invite him to be
part of political process by standing for elections.We need people who
are loyal, have integrity, are incorruptable, dont get afraid of
speaking what is in their minds, really thrive to see a strong
India.Where do we get such politicians.This is open invitation to the
general, till now you have led army time now to lead or be a part of
leaders who can lead India, i am sure political parties will give him
ticket to run for MP elections.He just needs to mention he is willing
to contest.This you must do general for your country.
Excellent and balanced op-ed by Ms. Subrahmaniam! Only from The Hindu! I am appalled at the audacity of the two of the biggest thiefs and bottom feeders of Indian political scene M/s Mulayam and Lallu calling for this valiant and honest general's sacking instead of taking actions to uphold India's security as per general's recommendations. Mr. Antony lost an opportunity to improve India's defense by his inaction and temerity for bold actions, Mr. Antony ought to learn a thing or two from General Singh on courage and leading from the front.
Brilliant piece. Kudos to Vidya for her thorough and dispassionate
analysis. How many hacks would have had the courage to criticize the
general in a balanced manner after getting an interview with him for
one hour? Not one. Only somebody like Vidya with her unimpeachable
integrity and commitment to the profession could have produced that
scoop as well the excellent op-ed. Our hackneyed commentators and
those distinguished former civil servants who are ready to comment on
everything must take a lesson from her about what is objective
reporting is all about.
Gen Vijay Kumar Singh, Civil Rights activist Anna Hazare, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev, and previous Chief Election Commissioner N Gopalaswami - all are converging on to the point of failed democratic system in India. At the end of the day, it is a fact that - all these brave citizens would not gain anything by waging this war, against the highly corrupted and powerful Indian political system. They cannot bank of poor people memory, mass emotions and media hype on long term basis. Thus, there is a serious downside risk for them than upside personal gains. Yet, they have got the guts to stand-up and question the systems and practices. Setting aside the clutter, I see more merit in these brave citizens arguments than meek justifications from the netas and their chelas.
Isn't it time to focus on "what" than "why".
Well Written...
Well Said. These two persons with high integrity should have worked hand in hand to sort out Army's serious issues.It is indeed a Wasted Opportunity.
The Army Chief could have avoided some of the public comments that he made. But he is a very honest person unlike the Yadav duo and other politicians calling for his resignation.
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