Land Scam and Generals

1. As an ex serviceman I feel ashamed, angry, and betrayed. Generals involved in scams! Punishments, of course, will be swift and severe. However, a couple of thoughts come to mind, even when it is filled with outrage, which requires attention of all our countrymen.

2. This is not to justify or rationalize the misdeed. An offence cannot be condoned or even mitigated no matter what the backgrounds or provocations or compulsions are. Nonetheless, one must realize that the armed forces (Sena) personnel grew up in the prevailing culture of the society drawing their values, ethos and guidelines from it. Corrupt politicians and bureaucrats (Netas, Babus), who commit all kinds and hues of crimes, and are ruling the country, duly aided by a legal and judicial system are they then the role models in the society? Therefore, the society must do something about it- soon. Social boycott of the offenders appears to be the solution as the law takes its own course, much to the delight of the criminals. Sena personnel are kept in check as much by the noble traditions still existing in the Units as by the strict military laws.

3. The second thought is about the expectation of the society from them and how they are treated in return. They are expected to be honourable, upright, brave, selfless, ever ready to die for the country and they certainly are all that. The erring ones are hammered. Remember ‘Tehelka’? Only the army men got the boot, long ago. For the others, law is taking its course – not necessarily moving on it. Shouldn't the Sena be given their dues, compatible respect and money? So far, the refrain has been, you(Sena) should die for the country, for glory and not bother about money. We (Netas, Babus) will settle for the mundane things like money and the freebies.
Jago India, Jago.
Col BN Ratha (Retd)