Politics prevails over military sense
Mandeep Singh Bajwa, Hindustan Times Chandigarh, November 16, 2014
The tragic snuffing out of two innocent lives in Budgam has saddened everyone. Relative absence of unrest in the wake of the deaths has not escaped observers’ attention, pointing towards the improvement in the security situation brought about by the untiring efforts of the military and police. In this case the troops of 53 Rashtriya Rifles appear to have committed an error of judgement. However they seem to have already been presumed guilty of a violation of the rules of engagement. The ball was set rolling by the then defence minister’s hasty tweet on the subject.
Others down the chain of command followed. Maybe they should all have waited for the report of the court of inquiry before pronouncing the patrolling party culpable.
Attempts to link this case with the Machil killings should be resisted. In this case the troops seem to have acted in good faith. The incident portrays vividly the strong potential for human tragedy inherent in insurgencies and operations set in motion to counter them. While respect for human life must be paramount always and there must be zero tolerance for excesses, our Jawans serving under tough conditions must not be sacrificed at the altar of political expediency. The gains of the hard-won peace in the Valley brought about by a successful counter-insurgency campaign must not be frittered away for doubtful political benefits. Is it too much to expect an understanding of our soldiers’ position?
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