New Delhi:
In an attempt to lower the pitch of the high-volume battle between the Army Chief and the government, Defence Minister AK Antony today said that "all three chiefs enjoy the government's confidence." Mr Antony's remarks indicate that the chief will not be dismissed, as demanded by leaders of some opposition parties as well as some of his own colleagues.
His vote of confidence was also shared hours after the chief, General VK Singh said forcefully that attempts to blame him for the leak of a confidential letter to the PM are unacceptable. Mr Antony described the leak today as "anti-national." He did not blame anyone for the leak, stating that the Intelligence Bureau has been assigned to investigate the matter and that "the real culprits" will be given "the maximum punishment under the Indian Penal Code."
Mr Antony's comments came just after the Army Chief forcefully refuted allegations that he is responsible for the controversial leak.
"This is an outrage! Official communication with the PM, RM (Raksha Mantri) or anybody for that matter with the COAS (Chief of Army Staff) is privileged information. The leaking of the letter should be treated as high treason. This cynical approach to tar my reputation has to stop. The source of the leak has to be found and dealt with ruthlessly," said the Army Chief today via a mailed statement. He is on an official tour of Kashmir and is expected back in Delhi later today. The general's note warns the PM that the country's safety is at risk because troops are saddled with obsolete equipment.
Opposition parties and military experts have urged the government to urgently address the deficiencies detailed by the general in his letter, pointing out that though the public disclosure of the army's weaknesses is worrying, there are genuine concerns that cannot be overlooked. In addition to modernizing equipment, the government has to survey and correct corruption embedded in defence procurement. Mr Antony said today, "The government has a zero tolerance policy for corruption and has decided that in the procurement process, if any malpractices are found at any stage, it would not hesitate to cancel the contracts."
The minister was also quick to point out that the current controversies can impact he ordinary soldier. "Indian army is still in Siachen and at Kashmir border, don't demoralise them," he said.