SOMETHING  BLACK  IN  ARMY  LENTIL

When the former  Army Chief Genl V K Singh had problems about his date of birth, it also transpired that he had some misunderstanding with Genl Bikram Singh who was already slated to succeed him. Since the MOD was not happy with Genl Singh, the latter's unwillingness could not create any stumblingblock for the new incumbent.  The impression was in the air that Genl Bikram Singh was innocent.However, the recent development has shown that he is not that simple and disciplined.

Genl Bikram Singh had been on official visit to USA from Dec 2-5, 2013 where he came to notice for transgressing his brief. There he was awarded the  Legion of Merit which is the sixth highest military award of that country. This programme was not on the agenda and he did not show the courtesy of informing his ministry.

It is not the fact that he is the first recipient of this honour. As a matter of fact this award is given to both the local and military dignataries of USA and foreign countries. Already Field Marshal Kariappa had been honored with this prestigious award and Genl Bikram singh was the fifth Indian Army officer to get this honour.

What is more surprising is the lack of any official Indian go ahead in this regard. As a matter of fact, Genl Singh did not deem it proper to inform the authorities here. Consequently, the Defence Minister has not taken it softly. He may serve a show cause notice on Genl Singh. He may give something in reply which may or may not be convincing. But what about the status of disciline which is plinth of any unifirmed force?