the Indian general likes to be on front page of news. that's the reason why he makes such comments which make no sense whether it's against Pakistan or china.

Indrani, your diagnosis that there is a glaring disconnect between our fighting brains and our diplomatic and strategic brains is absolutely correct. And no efforts have been made by either sides to bridge the gap between the two. Furthermore, sometime ago, Supreme Court has handed down a landmark decision that the government must ensure the principle of One Rank One Pension for Armed Forces, but our selfish bureaucrats are sabotaging the implementation of this judgment and now someone has initiated a contempt process. This latter development is likely to add fuel to a fire which is currently smoldering. A career in armed forces is becoming more & more unpopular for various reasons. That this a potentially dangerous situation is not appreciated by many. I earnestly hope that our sagacious P.M. will see the point and wield his authority to rectify the problem.

Actually the comment made by one of our militery chief regarding China it is true the biggest threat to our country is china, But some how the militery should not make political comment.

have you lost your logical reasoning capabilities?
The governor in question " Retd chief of army staff is now a civilian & off course a governor. he doesn't represent the army anymore.
are you so devoid of a worthwhile topic to blog about ?
pl get your Technical facts correct !
MIND YOUR LANGUAGE.. YOU ARE BLOGGING ON TOI :)

1. So, a 25 year old TOI Bengali civilian female knows more about the enemy - tactics, strategy etc than the Indian Armed Forces ?

2. Reminds of Dileep Padgaonkar, Editor TOI who said that the 2nd MOST important job in India after Gujral or Gowda or whatever was the august Editor ot the TOI.

WHAT IS WRONG ABOUT MAKEING REMARKS STANDING
UP TO THE ROUGH STATE OF CHINA WHO IS AN ARCH ENEMY OF INDIA EVEN GREATER THAN PAK. HAVE SOME DIGNITY AND NATIONAL PRIDE MR. MANMOHAN, AND STOP ACTING LIKE SHISHI...BOY....AND AS LEADER OF NATIONS OF SLAVES. STOP DOING THE DEALS LIKE NUKE DEALS TO CRIPPLE INDIA AT THE ORDER OF YOUR AMERICAN FRIENDS. STOP TALKING ABOUT GAY RIGHTS AND ALL SUCH NONSENSE. SCRAP THE NUKE DEAL, EMBARK ON THE PATH OF FORMIDABLE NUKE MILIATRY POWER WITH ICBMS THAT CAN HIT ANY CORNER OF THE WORLD IF INDIA IS PUSHED OR THRETENED. THEN SEE IF CHINA, PAK, AUSTRILIA OR ANY SUPER POWER CAN EVEN THINK IN THEIR MIND OF EVEN UTTERING A WORD AGAINST INDIA. IT'S A SHAME ON THE NATION TO HAVE LEADERS WHO TAKE ORDERS FROM FOREIGN MASTERS.

Congrats Miss Bagchi
Now I understand, only China has got the RIGHT to be nationalistic.Our nation is so weak that we have to be afraid of some zingoistic so called national press of a enemy nation. We must muzzel the men who gave their youth, their life for the NATION. CONGRATS.
Pepole like you are the assate for my country.
Hope your AIRCONDITIONER are running fine.
jaihind

Military brass told to mind their language :Of late the Top Brass of Indian Services were courageous enough to call a spade a spade ,more independently .They are equally responsible for all what they spell out . The Civil Top Bureaucrat may be considered more diplomatic to a degree . The policy matters are the business of the Political Leaders & the Civil authorities . Ours is a democracy . The President is the Supreme Commander of all the three services . We have Defence minister,Defence secretary & secretaries for the three wings of our forces , to ensure the proper implementation of the Govt orders & instructions : this being the overall policy matter of the Govt . SO far as the services matters within the working / preparedness /updating /equipment /manpower /service conditions et al are concerned ; all the Service Chiefs are the sole authorities to oversee its ever readiness in case of combat activities . There seems to be some loose ends popping up at times, in disciplining & the language usage while interacting with the media about the international matters connected with our country ,directly or indirectly. There is,however, no question of 'Zip your Lips' order like to silence the military bosses . Better understanding & coordination,perpetual back up meetings at the highest level ,both civil & military bosses update each other about the Govt's Policy matters,general/common intelligence ,from time to time .Frequent exchange of dialogue amongst the concerned, shall prove to be helpful in thrashing out any misunderstandings or misgivings . However , over assertiveness on the part of civil authorities may create some sort of wedge ,an unhealthy & undesirable sign between the civil & military authorities . Balancing acts are a tough & tactical hiccups . The likely kinks & the ripples ,if any , need to be removed with out any delay ,invariably always ;in the national interest .The Services must not be made to feel some sort of suffocation at the same time . A proper balancing act has to be tailored as per the situational exigencies to the satisfaction of all & sundry .

very good article.

Thanks fro compiling the thoughts and issues associated with China. I agree with you that Indian govt. is not becoming realistic about China. This goes back to Nehru time. Our politicians will not realize the mistake until Arunachal Pradesh is taken over by China. China has long term desires and it does not change. Our politicians, specially from Congress, are easily confused by China. Who is behind Maoist's attack in India?.

Ma'am you have diagnosed a situation well and it is a matter to give a thought about. Let us come gradually, Is it not that our recent past and past governments done a only a bit of 'mending ties' with our neighbours? especially with the Chinese? Who have a tendency to revert their stances at some points of time. It is that the men in uniform are raising their voices may be due to this. They are the one's who has to face the truth at the ground level, isn't it. They, as human beings have to 'face the music'. Since 1960s, China has been placing their territorial claims on India, which, after repeated talks and discussions have remained the same. The Chinese, seem to be people who talk less and act on their own whims, they walk into borders, claiming territories and then reluctantly agree on talks, with no results. The Indian Armed forces are the one's who have to deal with these "fanciful' people on ground, and that is why they are raising their voices to us and also to make it audible to the decision makers isn't it?

The defence services brass has done nothing wrong by any kind of statements.It is because
lack of Vision of our Babus we lost huge territory of the country to China in 1962 and not because of Soldiers. It is because of these very Babus the aspirations of the people in certain parts of the country have not been taken care of thus resulting in unrest. They even fail to use the available civil forces in constructive manner & get the army to control the issues. They should be held accountable for terrorist,urban/rural insurgency in the country. Our Prime Minister is an intelligent, experienced knowledgable person he understands all the tricks of these people and will ensure that respect & diginity of Defence Services is maintained at any cost.

This is height of our "freedom of press" and the low of "National Pride" or even "Self Esteem".

Indrani,
Before I make any comment on your article..a few questions for you
1- Have you ever visited the Arunachal or north east border yet and observed the Chinese Infrastructure there ?
2- Are you saying that Mr JJ is completely wrong in his situation assessment after devoting his life to Indian army..same goes for Outgoing Air Chief
3- Are you suggesting that the current lot of politicians have the skills assessment better than the armed forces of India who loose their life on border for some one trying to be politically correct pen weilding journalists and all citizens ?
4- Whats your and Indians politicians assessment of "string of pearls" around India including srilanka etc ?
5- How do you assess the chinese language used in their articles on official mouthpiece newspapers ? You expect Indians not be natioanlistic.

Finally, This is not the India of 60's...this is the India and Indians of today who have the guts to call a spade a spade. If recent failed attempt of ADB loan blockade attempt for Arunachal is not a hint for Indian politicians then they are being an Ostrich.

After those insulting article to every Indian in chinese media..this is what our media can come best with. Seems our media is well disconnected with today's confident, intelligent and no nonsense current generation.

We as a nation and citizens demand to know the threat situation on borders and Indian Ocean as it is. We read what our generals say, do our own research, read between the lines and knows whom to trust more between the politicians and Defence Forces. Mr Manmohan Singh is great economist no doubt..but a statesman ?? Haven't see the glimpse of it in last five years atleast.

I dont know why we Indian and specially the politician and babus become so uneasy whenever there is any public remark on any issue from our millitary top brass. you want our generals to lead the worlds fourth largest force without having powers to speak the truth. INDIA HAS BECOME SUCH A SHAMEFUL COUNTRY THAT IT DOSENT DESERVE A DEFENCE FORCE WHICH IT IS HAVING TODAY. DUE TO IN EFFICIENCY OF POLITICIAN, BABOOS AND MEDIA 70% OF THE COUNTRY IS SUFFERING FROM SOME OR OTHER KIND OF TERRORISM. DAILY OUR DOZENS OF SOILDERS DIE IN LANDMINE BLAST AND FIGHTING WITH TERRORIST. WE INDIAN HAVE BECOME SO SHAMELESS THAT THESE NEWS MAKE NO EFFECT ON US. THE MEDIA WHICH HIGHLIGHTS THE HEADLINE ABOUT OUR GENERALS DOSE NOT BOTHERS TO ATLEAST PUBLISH THE NAME OF THE MARTYRS. THIS COUNTRY SHOULD GET DEFENSE FORCE LIKE PAKISTAN THEN THE MEDIA, POLITICIAN AND BABUS WILL COME TO KNOW WHAT TO SPEAK AND WHAT NOT. IN LAST 60 YEARS WE HAVE ENSURED THAT NO PROBLEM IS SOLVED AND ALL PROBLEMS ARE MADE SO COMPLICATED JUST FOR POLITICAL AND MONETAYR BENEFITS. ITS HIGH TIME TO PAY ATTENTION ON THE REAL ISSUE BEHIND THE STATEMENTS AND NOT JUST DOING THE GREAT JOB OF TELLING MILLITARY TOP BRASS TO KEEP QUIET

1. Hindi-Chinee Bhai-Bhai seems to be "THE" ruling party's "Strategy" to contain China.
2. Someone with balls is always ignored only to be replaced by someone with no balls. Ex. Brij Mohan Kaul.
3. Does Indrani seriously think that India has "Strategic Brains" in the political class ?
4. The Biggest disconnect is not having a "Unified" command for AirForce-Army-Navy.
5. I am of the opinion, the First Indo-Sino war was lost due to the complete neglect of our Armed forces by our ruling political party at the time, and its apparant lack of "Foreign Intelligence" gathering apparatus.
6. Which is difficult especially given that our First lady of ruling political party is a Foreigner.
7. What can one say, when our leader's don't know how to lay foundations for a strong nation. when their only goal seems to be acheiving benchmarks set for us by "Superpowers". That is seen by our desire to "Gate-crash" into the Permanent Security council of UN.

i think we should talk less and act more as chinese have been doing .why we are always going for accusing each other . Let them say what they want , we should develop our military in such a way that they could not dare to take a single inch of our land .
THAT’S ALL.

All of this is just shadow boxing. It would be better if the military took over and cleaned up our political system and constitution. That great military commander George Washington played no insignificant role in framing and controlling the terms of the debate leading to the creation of the United States. India is worse off for having avoided appointing a military man as the head of government in its formative years, and this error needs to be rectified before more damage is done.

What the General said is absolutely correct. Our spineless pliticians have no guts to let out the truth NOR do they want the nation to become strong. It is high time right person is put to head the right post. Henceforth let the Defence be headed by a retired defence officer as Minister rather than by a civilian. Our civilian defence minister cannot even withstand an NDA parade, has to be hospilised at the ceremony. Other ministries like Industry, Health likewise should also be headed by authority in that area, highly qualified and renowned in his area of work. Prime Ministry should now take action to see India a force to be acknowledged even in Military affairs by the world,such that even China should become aware of.Dont appoint any worthless politicians under pressure from various parties and also from Sonia Gandhi.

Jai JAWAN, Jai KISAN.

The current Inidna situation - economical as well as military - demands that we respect our neighbour. Do we forget their frequent incursios into our territories - never!! Do we forget that Aksai Chin is ours - never!!. The only way out is to build ourselves first on both fronts - economical as well as militiary. At the same time - somehow India needs to un-tangle itself from the stand of supporting China on Tibet. We can take on the dragon only from position of strength. Mere platitudes won't suffice. While we improve ourselves - God knows how long will that take - 25-50 years or may be more - our policy should be to defend. And should refrain from stirring anything controversial which enables the dragon to flex its muscles. Border development and better integration of eastern states into mainstream fabric of the country has been a frequent complaint from our our citizens in that part of the country. The government must give enough resources and power to the appratus already created for easter states. Mere words won't do. India can not afford war now nor for next 100 years.

Come on, can gyus supposed to be the fourth piller of state (media), be a bit more resposible? Tell me, do we love to go beserk whenever a man in uniform - a thorough proffesional, master of his profession and undubtedly having NATION supreme in their thought - speak anything. We called the services chiefs, undisciplined when a genuine concern was voiced aginst vast epathy meted out to us right since independence in form of pay commissions. Do you know that a sepoy, the fearless soldier and guardian of NATION's integrity is as good as a grade IV employee - A PEON- are the jobs even comparable??? Lieutenants and Captains (Class I officers, and leading their men from front into life threatening situations) are now held junior to even school teachers after VI CPC. That apart, even an illiterate man knows that know one knows a job better than the man who does it. So friends let me remind critics that its our job to defend the country, and whatever we do, even while speaking, its always INDIA and her prestige which is important to us. Now what does the press expect, should we keep quite just because nationalists in some other country might feel bad? Was this a joke? Look from the point of view of a young officer at front or of that of a lone sentry standing guard at height of 17000 ft, who faces rheotrics from the hostile enemy day in and day out, an enemy considering himself so superior that he will hardly offer his hand first to shake hands. Logics don't work there, he remembers 1962, when forced political and beaurocratic decisions made him loose several of his bretheren and vast amount of his beloved territory. Just knowing that his country is matching up the build up on other side, gives him a boost enough to surpass his limits and fight for NATION AND IZZAT. Its gives him psycholigcal edge and strength. Our chiefs, doesn't speak off hat. They've been there, done that. They know what they speak. Friends, if u can't give us our basic respect, atleast don't interfare

This is exactly what the Indian Govt did in 62, failing to recognize the threat from China which was ensuing since 1954's border intrusions to the construction of the Aksai Chin road. Turning a blind eye towards the most realistic threat that existed was the blunder that Mr Nehru created back then which not only necessitated a change in our defence policy post the 62 war but also saw the politicians and bureaucrats giving armed forces their due. Are we heading to the same mind set where we are not only afraid to admit where the threat lies but to top it all, also snubbing people who are vocal about it?

The remarks by defence officers that China is our real enemy is true and every defence and intel person worth his salt knows it. But our political leaders are spineless to address the issues of border ingressions and violations. By keeping our eyes closed we cannot make it dark.

Over the years China has encircled us; Pakistan is a proxy of China, and now Nepal with Maoists and secularism has leaned over. Maynmar is another Junta, Bangladesh is a tumor on our underbelly. With our MEA bungling as usual, Chinese have established a good foothold in Sri Lanka too. While our leaders are busy playing musical chair for power, the Defence is left with no strategy other than their own carrers and emoluments. Any General airing the truth is admonished by the Govt. !!!; what a shame.

We should have the courage to call China our enemy, acknowledge it publicly every time. We may not create war hysteria, but acknowledging it as an enemy, we shall be wary and prepared for all eventualities.

Dear TOI Editor:
Ms. Bagchi's clear comments on China's jingoistic/shrill nationalism voiced through their Army's mouthpiece organs-Global Times- People's Daily-is a wake-up call for Indian politicians, military and intelligentsia/ business community. China is playing its usual hardball games with India; and Indian military is correct to identify their existential threat. After being commissioned to be sent to fight the Chinese in the 1962 Indo-China War, allow me advise fellow Indians. Do not trust the Chinese in anything they say or do! They have encircled India-through deep water submarine bases, ports and listening posts in Pakistan(Gwadar); Myanmar; Bangladesh, Thailand and now in Hamambotu in Sri Lanka; & built the Karakoram Highway upto India through Pakistan. They have built military infrastructure and missile bases in Tibet; and dammed water supplies through the Brahmaputra and the high water tables off Tibet. Indians would be wise to stop playing games and listen to the Indian military-they know the nuclear threat especially the ICBM's aimed at India from Tibet. Indian should execute its Nuclear Triad-Air, Sea and Land 2nd strike capability now-and be fully prepared for any infringement on its sovereignity from China and its nuclear proliferation buddy, Pakistan. The Chinese only recognize brute military (nuclear and conventional) strength and economic dominance in any push back on their intimidation. Mealy-mouthed assertions that we saw pre-1962 from Mao and Chou of Panch Sheel and Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai caused the premature death of Pandit Nehru in Mao's hands. Let not Nehru's great granson suffer the same fate in Chinese-and Indian CPM proxies' hands. China has also proposed a split in naval operations to the US Navy-with hegemony on the Indian Ocean. India should stop this cold with advanced military and economic planning over a 20-year period NOW! China's 50-year plan shd be war-gamed against an Indian 50-year military-economic plan soon!

when china will attack to take arunachal pradesh it will be our majors and generals who will be in the front line to protect the country from another shameful defeat. babus and Netas will be hiding somewhere in the bunkers planning how to make more money by doing corruption in buying coffins for the fallen. three cheers for Bharat Mata which looks so dysfunctional In front of china.

The apathy,indifference,arrogance and ignorance of our Babus and their political masters is once again exposed. They together demoralise our defence forces. Fighting China is different from fighting elections. It is high time our political leadership and administration becomes proactive and help/co-operate Armed Forces.

The opening of their mind in public by the top Army brasses will not going to help the strained foreign relation and hostile neighbourhood. Since the "UNTOLD STORY" written by General B M Kaul after war of 1962, the army always implied that the timidity of sucssesive goverment has prevented all the victory. It is not so. The cold war has its own demands amd now virtual unipolar world order has other. America sounds good on China but we witht thy neighbours like China, Nepal, Mayanmar, Bangla Desh, Pakistan, Shrilanka except Bhutan a mute spectator in the regional power play can not go on antagonise without purpose and need to do so. They must speack of their mind before policy makers of country. To take a hawkish posture, to look more nationalistic than civilian goverment is not the way our army behaved. The Indian democracy has completed its journey of 62 years with help of its militry which was, is and will apoltical. This helped us not turning in Pakistan and become the world economy, member of G 20 to G 8 and make a claim for permanent U N Safety Counsil seat. The world order has praised our militia, democracy by and large and now America has to recognise our inner strength of democracy. Despite all sortcommings of our inharited colonial system, mentality and style of funcioning without accontability we maintained our dignity of republic and constitution. We are ridden with corruption in militry and in civil administration alike. The arms deal were in past always found a retired army officer and civil administration and poltician nexus. So it has to be checked. Pinak is busting on launcher and ordinance factory chiefs are being arrested for corroption. This will not boost of the morals of the front line solders on the line of fire nor it cosols their family or mass populi. If we go on airing sentiments and raising fingers to others than god may help my country. When call of honour comes than let the bell tolls, but please not do any thing to make the ties snap

Yes thats the correct way to go...ans where will it lead us - To 1962...Oh! you may not remember what happened then, because you didn't lose a brother, a father or a son in the battle.
It was this attitude, civilians know all about strategy and Military knows nothing that made Nehru, Krishna Menon (Def Minister) and Mullick (Director IB) lead us to the defeat. Gen Thimayya who was the COAS had forewarned them of the threat from China...... but as you said "MILITARY -MIND YOUR LANGUAGE".
Let me tell you , It is the military's language and the chiefs are one of the most competent people to comment on it.
I donot blame you as you too need you bit of fame ...by making such irresponsible comments .

proud of brave indian army and its general.only man with heart in india.shame on indian govt..

Since the party that is in charge of the governance of India today is the same one which was in charge in 1962, they would do well to recall their "golden era" of Nehru and draw lessons from it, namely to listen to what the generals have to say.If Nehru had had the good sense to listen to the generals, India would not have had to eat the humble pie in 1962. Today, China and Pakistan never miss a chance to remind us how inferior we are to Chinese pointing to that rout in the mountains. He was so hypnotized by his "Bhai-Bhai" ism and that other fool Krishna Menon, his Defence Minister, he could not see the dagger poised to strike his back until it actually did. Both of them wanted to make the India-China border similar to US-Canada border - without any need to defend it, much like his successor ManMohan Singh wants to make Siachen "the peace mountain". The armed forces had been emasculated by the policy of ordering the ordnance factories to manufacture coffee percolators. When the crunch came, all Nehru could do was to "boldly" order a powerless, ill-equipped army which he had himself emasculated over the years to "throw the rascals out" . Not long after, the man died. Some surmise that the Chinese back-stab killed him prematurely! Will ManMohan Singh listen?

Jay Jawan(Salute to Soldier),Jay Kisan(Salute to Farmer),Jay Vigyan(Salute to Knowledge of Arts,Science,Commerce)

In 1962, we had a Congress Govt let by 'Pandit' Jawaharlal Nehru which led us to the war against China. In that instance also no advice was taken form the Services about its Preparedness and Capability. The Fallout of the same is known to all.....if there is a war tomorrow it will be these generals who will be coordinating the battles not the politicians, not the 'babus' and not you Mrs Bagchi!! It is no use telling the Generals to 'Shut Up' when the facts are something else. It is high time our democracy comes out of the misconception that the Armed Forces will take over the govt if too much power is ginev to them.

If a common man voices concern about national security, he will be advised to mind his own business for he doesn't know enough about international relations or security matters. If those who are responsible for national security voice their concerns based on their perceptions they are told to mind their language. That leaves only the politicians or some diplomats(in UN forums where everybody listens to Chinese(interpreted,of course) but hardly any Hindi) to talk on such matters. Now has anyone ever heard abour a clear position on our relations with China by any leader of any party during any election campaign? Why does the political class as a whole (since others don't have the right or place to put the politicians and diplomats in an uncomfortable position) seem oblivious to the Chinese threat?
The policy of maintaining status quo works only if both sides agree to it in principle at least. If history is anything to go by, Chinese will adhere to status quo only until they are ready to change it. Tibet and Ladakh can be cited as evidence. Will Arunachal Pradesh be next?
Who can say? I'm just a common man.

Indians should think twice before calling a spade a spade!!
And what about china(?), who can even write 2-3 articles against India in their national news papers, saying that 90% chinese feel India is the biggest threat to them.
Ask Indians how unsafe we feel because of China,that one day they will attack us and we will be able to do nothing but to see the face of our so called friend America for help, who himself is afraid of China.

With all respect, I wonder why somebody as well articulate and as well educated as you doesn't work a wonder for the government. It's about time the Indian government began stepping up and the first step to make this a reality is to not have another lame-duck government. Another fantastic piece.

China has blocked ADB loan to India citing the border row, their ambassador in India is bold enough to say in Indian soil that the 'whole' of Arunachal Pradesh is theirs, they are bold enough to aid the Maoists in Nepal, build bases around India in Burma, Pakistan and Sri Lanka but for the govt of India it is wrong if the military men say that China is the real threat.

Ms.Bagchi,

You better mind your own language.Seems you serve for the Chinese and Paki intelligence agencies.

Complete nonsense writing.

While the other comments by the author on improving the co-operation between diplomats/media and military are useful, I find the author's post very one-sided on the aspect of India having first cast the stone on Civilized state to state behaviour.

What constitutes civilized state to state behaviour ? Does it include only the speeches, articles OR does it include actions also.

Can the author explain whether the following actions of Chinese constitute civilized state to state behaviour ?

a) In the past 50 years, can the author explain how many times China (an Asian power, representing Asia in UN, a seat which India graciously supported China for, despite having had a chance to claim it itself), supported India, on issues on national interest (security and economics related) to India in UN ?

b) Does the act of Chinese openly proliferating M-11 missiles, in violation of MTCR agreements it is supposed to abide by, constitute civilized state to state behaviour (despite India protesting it)?

c) Does the act of Chinese refusing to share basic hydrological data of Brahmaputra (for most part of 50 years) and refusing to co-operate with India on flash floods , despite loss of lifeconstitute civilized state to state behaviour ?

d) Does the act of refusing to share boundary maps with India constitute Civilized state to state behaviour ?

e) China possess territory that Pakistan stole from India.

f) China silently conquered Aksai Chin region of India and occupies it still today. Does it constitute civilized state to state behaviour ?

More recently,
g) China went out of its way to prevent a ban on LET/Jamat-ud-dawah for the past three years. If they had done it, Mumbai attacks could possibly have been prevented
h) China explicitly kept India out of the EAEC, when most of the others were not opposed to India's inclusion, despite India sharing a close border with a Asean Country.

Only Indian journalistic cook up articles based on imaginary and wishful thinking making authoritative statements like "An angry denial of permission" with no responsibility to answer by who? when? and so on. May be we get the media people we deserve!

Has the govt. learnt anything yet from history - remember 1962!
Both P and C are real "threat" - don't forget 1947, 1965, 1971 and 1999 too!

Dear Indrani Bagchi,

Please get your facts straight. First, the governor of a state is not a Defence Service official, even if he is a retired Army officer. What is so difficult about that to understand! Next, your article seems to contradict itself. On the one hand you admit (correctly I may add) that the civilian officers have been burying their head in the sand and hoping that by ignoring the problem the problem will disappear. On the other hand you state that the armed forces have been speaking up about the facts on ground, calling a spade a spade, and yet you seem to portray them and their 'innocence' in poor light! It is true that the political/civil leadership has always tried to keep the military leadership out of the loop, but your presupposing that the military leadership lacks understanding of the facts on ground, or are somehow ill informed is too presumptuous. If you would interact with the officers of the services you would be surprised by their level of intellect and awareness. They would easily put bureaucrats and diplomats in their place, leave alone half baked journalists. That much I can assure you from personal experience having interacted with diplomats, bureaucrats and members of the media. If you would be so kind as to visit any military officers' mess, they would be more than happy to offer you a crash course in the real state of affairs on ground and some very well thought out course of action for our diplomats and bureaucrats to pursue to achieve long term and tactical goals. Not to forget, some recommended reading for journalists with questionable credentials.

Setu Madhavan

What a shame. The people who work on ground are given a shut up call when they call A SPADE A SPADE. No point closing ur eyes from truth. We have to accept that china is a real threat. More importantly give space to our armed forces seniors in strategic think tank. As is evident our strategist and hollow because they lack ground experience. Although they may argue that they dont require the same

SATYAMEVA JAYATE.....The Armed Forces must have their say in the matters related to the country's defense. I find this whole argument of a government which does not want to take responsibility on the issue severely rapping the army for speaking the truth.
Please tell me what is so wrong about the statement? The only repercussions would be that should China host the Olympic games again, the party president might not be invited as the REPRESENTATIVE OF INDIA!!!!!!!!!!
I see no other reason why should the government object in such a fashion to truth being spoken.

Alas... When will we have some matured reporters in our country especially in matters of such sensitivity and importance...

That explains why we lost in '62 - sheer inability to identify our enemy; the then government blissfully in its "panchsheel" and "Hindi-Chini Bhai-Bhai" musings!
A reporter like I. Bagchi only can expect the politicians to be strategic thinkers and the military brass to be dumb followers - so they are not allowed to identify the 'real threat'.
Well done commies!

Well, editor is very objective and right. Indian politicians do not have proper n long term policy in place to deal with its security. Political person heading the defence ministry is normally not a defence related expert or armed official or some kind of professional with related skills n depth.
Since, India got independance, India deals with every security issue on ad-hoc basis and proper coordination between armed forces, intel office, political office is out of sync because they do not have proper way of operation n dealing with national security. Everything on mercy of GOD!!

Actually, what most of us miss out on is the competence of Retd. Defence Chiefs as Governors or such high public offices. Given the cocoon that Defence Brass lives in all their lives, it is hard to see how Government finds them suitable for such appointments.
On top of that is the competence of JJ, the present Governor of Arunachal. He was always a media hungry personality and would go any length to get the attention back on himself. So all our neighbours should be advised by MEA not to take any of his remarks seriously.

There is this whole set of so called intellectuals, progressives and the elite who want to sit in their AC office on their *** and make easy money while others around them toil for the nation. They have penetrated institutions, organizations and other places of significance from where they keep preaching their nonsensical theories and opinions. Most of them want the hard working, sincere middle class people to toil for them while they manufacture rhetoric and sell it around. Its preposterous to claim that Military denied development to those same areas in which it was posted. Why would a general of a border post refuse a telephone line , power supply and good road that would bring in quick mail and food. I guess that most of the analysts, commentators and self acclaimed pandits in India are on payroll of our enemy intelligence and atleast receive favors from them. I dont see any other reason why we should proclaim that we have dirty laundry and wash it outside, in front of the entire world.

Its ironical in India that media takes pleasure in reporting negatively of any incident. Has Govt issued any statement about rebuking Army top brass? If he is accused of speaking against official line then who is to be blamed? Why system has not yet corrected itself to brief Services Chiefs about foreign affairs official line. MIlitarily what he has said is what we call spade a spade. Soldiers know only that language I suppose. Hasnt time come to really integrate all our heads together. Can your internal affairs be away from defence of Nation or diplomacy of Foreign Affairs. Water tight compartment working is neither desired nor feasible in todays environmrnt. Though Army Headquarter is being lebelled as part of MOD (Government) but in character still away from Government. Please integrate all wings of Government for better results.

do not play around with the indian army ,it is already boiling , it should not happen that an irrepairable loss occurs because of a follish blog like this . the editor has a job which he has failed badly .poor show TOI.

What this girl wrote is utter nonsence. Why should people waste time discussing it?

The fact is that netas are afraid of both Pakistan and China.

This girl is right, the Indian ministers should wear bangles. Like an ostrich they fail to see the obvious while China keeps smacking India every chance they get. Bunch of wimps. At least this gal has more courage.

The real good thing that has come out of this article is that one sees so many of our country men fully supporting the military establishment, leave apart few who still continues on crap whihc had resulted in our earlier military disaster with China. This is good sign and hope for a great/strong/confident India in the future.
Just to finish with, while one Defense Minister faints during a parade another in the past did not know the difference between a battle tank and a water tank.

The IA general certainly knows much more about the security issues of India than these secong grade journalists like Indrani Bagchi ,
Let's pray we get rid of these blind communist china supporters who are the number one internal threat,before we really take care of external threats.
I hope the message is clear let the armed forces (most professional in the country)do their job, than peeping out illogical media blogs like these.

Military brass told to mind their language :Of late the Top Brass of Indian Services were courageous enough to call a spade a spade ,more independently .They are equally responsible for all what they spell out . The Civil Top Bureaucrat may be considered more diplomatic to a degree . The policy matters are the business of the Political Leaders & the Civil authorities . Ours is a democracy . The President is the Supreme Commander of all the three services . We have Defence minister,Defence secretary & secretaries for the three wings of our forces , to ensure the proper implementation of the Govt orders & instructions : this being the overall policy matter of the Govt . SO far as the services matters within the working / preparedness /updating /equipment /manpower /service conditions et al are concerned ; all the Service Chiefs are the sole authorities to oversee its ever readiness in case of combat activities . There seems to be some loose ends popping up at times, in disciplining & the language usage while interacting with the media about the international matters connected with our country ,directly or indirectly. There is,however, no question of 'Zip your Lips' order like to silence the military bosses . Better understanding & coordination,perpetual back up meetings at the highest level ,both civil & military bosses update each other about the Govt's Policy matters,general/common intelligence ,from time to time .Frequent exchange of dialogue amongst the concerned, shall prove to be helpful in thrashing out any misunderstandings or misgivings . However , over assertiveness on the part of civil authorities may create some sort of wedge ,an unhealthy & undesirable sign between the civil & military authorities . Balancing acts are a tough & tactical hiccups . The likely kinks & the ripples ,if any , need to be removed with out any delay ,invariably always ;in the national interest .The Services must not be made to feel some sort of suffocation at the same time . A proper balancing act has to be tailored as per the situational exigencies to the satisfaction of all & sundry .

Our national media is full of illogical articles like these about the armed forces, while these writers don't know even a bit about what a logical thought is and why the general said so?

Will it make a difference to the chinese , if we keep mum ? Prior to the 1962 war , the Indian Government refused to even acknowledge that the chinese are a threat , and see where it led us !! Why is the Messenger being made a scapegoat ? Will China change its belligerent attitude if we keep quiet ?

This woman is taking advantage of the pro-women policy of the present stupid indian government. China is the real threat, and that should be discussed in public. Just like the gyundyu indian sarkar is trying to give the country over to the katwas just by keeping quiet and letting them increase their population, exactly so the Indian government is planning to give the country over to the Pakis and Chinese by keeping quiet while they attack us again and again.

In 1962 war from what I heard and know, the Chinks attacked us first. 26/11 was masterminded by the islamic jehadis. How long will India take the bashing of the world and its neighbours. Indian men be men:L and throw off the Indian governemnt you have: whehter it is Congis or the Saffrons: both are equally rotten.

Indrani Bagchi lacks the knowledge and true informed perspective on China and how different the Armed Forces and MEA perspective have been on the subject.
She should know, even if very superficially, that had it not been for our Armed Forces (specially Army) India would have lost much more by now. If she does not know this, she should better keep quite rather than belittle Army brass and thereby doing a Chinese job. The question is not of embarrassment but of national interests. The basics must be clear.....

Apart from statements made at the behest of their ministers, the Chiefs of the Armed Forces airing their views is a rare, and recent phenomenon for the last few decades. On a few occasions, understanding, mutual trust and professional respect between the civil and military were visible; PM Lal Bahadur Shastri and General JN Chaudhuri,during the 1965 operations against Pakistan, PM Indira Gandhi and General(later Field Marshal)Manekshaw in 1971, and PM Manmohan Singh and General JJ Singh more recently.The bureaucrat-military relationship was mostly cool,the Services taking the back-seat as mere advisors.Trident as an idea has yet to be learnt. The first Indian C-in-C(before the term COAS was introduced) was summoned by HM Patel,the Defence Secretary,to see him; General(later FM) Cariappa politely informed the DS that the latter would be welcome to see him in his office. The incident rankled as too uppish, and never forgotten; 'Kipper'was made a Field Marshal a long time 'after' Manekshaw, and only after a lot of clamour. Some of Kipper's successors went to Joint Secretaries to discuss cases, raising eyebrows;(rank consciousness is stronger in the civil); and they became successful Governors or Ambassadors later. There should be no necessity for Chiefs to go to the media on their own. Some flambyant ones played to the gallery with 'backhanders' like how our Army would have fared had he been the Pakistani Chief; he got away calling it a joke,and having been close to the political and bureaucratic hierarchy over a period. An ever-increasing unfortunate gap in understanding, mutual trust and professional respect between the political head and the Defence Chiefs seems to have been growing, maybe,one fears,with subtle hints from the bureaucrats. The dictatorships in the neighbours have been a bogey,convenient for the politicians,civil servants and the media to decry the Chiefs and thus blunt the edge of the sword of the Services at the country's peril.

Very interesting to see all these comments. It seems to be really hard for somebody not to speak about things in a way that brings nothing but harms to his country!

govt of india is use less
it requires a strong military leader like stalin or hitler who does even 1% for defence of nation
n giving military a role in foreign relation with disbuted countries

Absolutely true....our political establishment ( the government and various politcal parties ) MUST BE more open and realistic about the threats posed by China...we can no longer sweep the dust under the carper and pretend that every thing is fine........the problems and threat levels with China should be discussed openly at various levels and the military point of view must be heard and incorporated into our strategy...while chinese government and their press continue to threaten and tirade indian government and our policies, our politicians seems to have developed a cold feet in even acknowledging that china is a threat to us.......we need a much stronger defence minister who can stand upto the babus of our foreign services who devise all our disastrous policies with regards to dealing with other countries and the threat preceptions...

What else can Indians do ?!

I cannot agree more with you Indian Citizen. I do my own research. Mr. PM is not a Statesman, and I donot see him as a good economist either.....

this word is enough to say...........we are proud of mr DEEPAK.
I love my country.if every indian will love their country we dont need any filthy GOVT we ourselfs are enough to save our country.
but some students frm India learnt chinese language are defaming india.......shd be ban on that........

While the so called Civilian Brass, or should we call Civilian Scrap can't even speak, why shouldn't the Military Brass speak at all?

Correct Indrani, Our Armed Forces have to be more assertive and their seems to be a disconnect between the politos & Defnese forces. They have worked it out!