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