NDTV reports:
Lieutenant Colonel Srikant Purohit is the first serving army officer to face a terror charge, a case that's rendered a huge blow to the image of the armed force.
As investigators try to piece together his role, what's emerged is that he could have played a key role in the Malegaon blast, advising the group behind the terror strike.
Since evidence has been found against Lieutenant Colonel Purohit, a serving officer, of his alleged involvement in the Malegaon blasts, the mainstream media has unnecessarily pointed fingers at the Army and created a ruckus regarding the integrity of the same.
There is no reason to attack the reputation of the Army, one of the few credible and honourable institutions in the country, for the ideological stagnation of one serving officer. Of course, it is a serious situation that deserves to be heavily scrutinized by the ATS and even the media, but there is no reason to castigate the Army and damage it's reputation.
The Army is a shining ray of hope for the realization of a corruption-free and concretely secular India. Damage to its reputation will lead misguided youth to disrespect its contributions to the country.
And there are plenty.
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12 comments:
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 3:23:00 AM PST
While I understand your anguish about labelling the entire army with any derogatory impressions, I also want that we should look at things neutrally, without any colored glasses. Idealism is one thing, reality another. There have been some very gory cases of corruption, molestation and torture also. The Army is but human.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 3:56:00 AM PST
Yes, Mampi. Very true. The Army is human.
But in our kind of nation, where loyalties take a split second to waver it would be wise to maintain a "neutral" perspective about the Army as an institution rather than a collection of individuals who are susceptible.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 2:05:00 AM PST
true! we have got so used to painting everyone with the same brush! all muslims are terrorists, all cjhristains are out to convert us, all hindus are becoming fanatical! its just ridiculous!
heres hoping for saner times ahead!
cheers!
abha
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 6:52:00 AM PST
I totally agree with you on this topic trailblazer but what Mampi said is right too. There is really a need to educate the general people about army. I am a student and have been with many youngsters who DONOT want to join the army. But at the same time, there are committed ones too who see defence services as their ultimate aim.The problem is that all such incidents serve to even make the committed ones rethink twice before joining these services
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 8:40:00 AM PST
@abha
Exactly the point I'm trying to make. The Army is completely secular and that helps in times of so many other institutions, including the judiciary, failing to provide us with hope.
The recent revelations of corruption in the judiciary are very shocking, leaving the Armed forces as the flagbearer of all things good.
And hope.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 8:45:00 AM PST
@kiran
Again, precise. The psyche of a person changes when the media spoils the Army's image. And that too, because of one ideologically-stained officer interested in no unbiased service to the country.
I can't believe he's a Lt.Colonel.
Mampi has a point too and I've agreed with him on the above comment. Generalization and being ideal come with their own negatives.
I'm just attempting to keep the image of the Army clean. Because it is an institution of pride. In 60 years of democracy, we haven't come close to an Army coup or have been shamed by lack of valience.
Read the mainstream media reports and their disguised attempts to defame the Army.
Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 2:48:00 AM PST
The Chief of Air Staff has spoken on this topic. [Link]
Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 7:44:00 PM PST
I agree with you about not defaming the army, but have you heard of the Manorama case ? In a democracy every organisation should be accountable. I don't have any faith in our media and Police, who may have been influenced by the ruling political party ... it does sound unlikely that these guys were actually involved in acts of terrorism, I hope the truth comes out in the Court.
Monday, November 17, 2008 at 4:16:00 AM PST
I read the link. It basically takes the same viewpoint as yours..good one! I really like to read your perspective on various issues-it is unbiased and an intricate take on the happening!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 11:30:00 PM PST
@IHM
It's difficult to have faith in the media and police, because of the kind of events that take place. My only point is that the Army at large is very accountable and an institution of honour.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 11:43:00 PM PST
I agree :)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 2:33:00 AM PST
Interview with ex-Major General of the Army [Link]
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