Armed Forces: Windows of opportunity

Why has there been a systematic and progressive decline in the standing of the armed forces over the last six decades? Why are we the only democracy where civilian control of the armed forces has come to mean bureaucratic control? And why was it thought fit not to give a state funeral to a Field Marshal, who won us a war? One could go on. None of these and associated issues will mean much to the ordinary citizen, but to those in uniform it’s a matter of honour.

Militaries are secular not out of any ideological consideration, but out of an innate sense of professionalism. While individuals may be deeply religious, if one is facing death in the line of duty daily, what counts is flag, country and regiment or unit of the fighting men. Those who have either donned military uniforms or respect the profession of arms will understand this ethos. The rest will find it incomprehensible.

The progressive decline of the parity of the armed forces as a consequence of successive pay commissions is well known. The Service Chiefs’ request to include a member from the services in the Sixth Pay Commission was turned down. The services did not get a fair deal and the Chiefs made a representation. While appointing a Committee of Secretaries, the government again declined a service representative. When the services voiced concern on these findings, there were veiled threats in the media about disciplining the services.

This is a defining moment as our last bastion of security stands dented, fortunately not punctured. Many eagerly wish to fish in these troubled waters. The nation cannot afford to sit idle while the institution of our armed forces continues down a slippery slope.

Such moments of crises are also windows of opportunity. Let the nation respond by setting up a Blue Ribbon Commission to look at all aspects of our armed forces and indeed their role and place within the Indian Republic. Like the Army advertisement seeking volunteers, it is the turn of the nation to ask itself "Do we have it in us"?

Brijesh D Jayal
Retired Air Marshal of the Indian Air Force
The above article is an extract. Please click for the full text: Windows of opportunity: The armed forces’ role needs a close look