Army officer sends directives on graft,waste and sycophancy

NEW DELHI: Army chief General Bipin Rawat has issued a series of directives for strict implementation of preventing misuse of CSD liquor and curbing ostentatious functions and sycophancy and removing orderlies deployed for retired senior officers.

Rawat’s directives created waves down the ranks in the force and the larger veteran community. While some argue the measures are to improve the “internal health” of the army, though the force is proud of its high standards of discipline and lesser corruption .

Others face the “not-so-new directives” are issued when Rawat is facing flak from many in the army for “succumbing to government pressure” from opening the closed roads in 62 cantonments for civilian traffic to soldiers being deployed for all and sundry tasks, which includes building bridges in cities and cleaning waste thrown by tourists in high-altitude areas.

A directive says “ Misuse of CSD liquor and groceries to encourage profits must be curbed. CSD facility is meant only for authorized persons but even minor units are indulging in profiteering through inflated sales.”

Rawat says “ Measures to reduce deep-fried and unhealthy food like puris, pakoras and sweet dishes need to be undertaken and replaced with healthy alternatives acceptable to the troops.”

“Rising cases of moral turpitude are a matter of concern. Strict punishment, including dismissal without pension, is being given to the offenders,” he added.