Overreach of the Army Chief

What is the issue?

• Army General Bipin Rawat has been speaking out of turn on many critical issues.
• This has potential consequences for the Army’s institutional autonomy and its perceived political neutrality.

What are some of his excessesive statements?

• Awarding Cariappa - General Rawat had publicly recommended Field Marshal Cariappa for a Bharat Ratna.
• Such remarks are not in good taste as an army chief isn’t expected to make such personal recommendations in public forums.
• Even if it was a collective army demand, it should’ve been made through a personal letter to the Rastrapathi Bhavan.

• Sensitive Statements - He compared stone-pelters in Kashmir to terrorists in an interview.
• Such statements also could potentially sabotage the tag of political neutrality that the forces enjoy.

Why is institutional autonomy critical?

• Excessive political interference in public institutions has decayed their autonomy considerably.
• Over the years, at both Central and state levels, many government departments have become mere extensions of the party in power.
• Election Commission, RBI, the Supreme Court and the Armed Forces are among the few institutions that have survived intact.
• But here too, their functional autonomy is on display only if headed by people of principle and courage.
• Lack of moral courage or the lure of a post-retirement job have sometimes led people to uphold the agenda of their political masters.

How has Army’s autonomy fared?

• While some officers have been known to have political loyalties, most chiefs of army staff have carefully stayed away from politics.
• Among those who admirably upheld the traditions of office and political neutrality of the forces was General T.N. Raina
• He firmly stood his ground during the challenging times of emergency and its aftermath.
• Most chiefs of army staff have eschewed public commentary on issues as a conscious move to stay clear of sensationalism.  
• It is hence important to reign in our current Army General to preserve the sanctity of the institution.
• Notably, it’s the non-political nature that differentiates our forces substantially from the Pakistani Military.

Source: Indian Express