This Post Is Recently Updated on Dec 27, 2023 @ 21:43 pm by TBB Desk
In a significant statement, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the dual responsibility of the Indian Army: safeguarding national security while also winning the hearts of the citizens. This comes in the wake of the deaths of three men in Army custody in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), stirring debates about military conduct.
Incident in Jammu and Kashmir
Speaking in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch, Singh expressed his unwavering faith in the Army’s ability to eradicate terrorism from the region. However, he made a pointed reference to the recent incident where three men died while in Army custody, stressing the importance of care and empathy in military operations.
Singh’s Appeal to the Army
The Defence Minister’s message was clear: the Army’s duty extends beyond national defense to include nurturing trust and understanding with the citizens of India. He acknowledged the challenges faced by soldiers but urged them to ensure their actions do not harm Indian citizens.
Custodial Deaths and Investigation
The deaths of Safeer Hussain (43), Mohd Showket (27), and Shabir Ahmad (32), who were taken into custody following an ambush in Poonch, have led to an internal investigation by the Army. The families of the deceased have received compensation of Rs 10 lakh.
Rajnath Singh’s Outreach to Affected Families
Following his address to the soldiers, Singh, along with Army Chief General Manoj Pande and Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, met with the families of the civilians who allegedly died in Army custody. He also visited the Government Medical College to check on the health of four other individuals reportedly affected by the incident. The Defence Minister assured justice and transparency in dealing with the matter.
Key Points
- Dual Responsibility of the Army: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasizes the Army’s role in protecting the nation and winning the hearts of its citizens.
- Custodial Deaths in J&K: Reference to the recent deaths of three men in Army custody, highlighting the need for careful and empathetic military conduct.
- Internal Investigation and Compensation: The Army is conducting an investigation into the custodial deaths, with compensation provided to the affected families.
- Outreach and Assurance of Justice: Singh’s meeting with the families and his commitment to ensuring justice in these cases.
This statement from the Defence Minister comes at a critical time as the Army continues its operations in the Surankote and Thanamandi forest belt, balancing the need for effective anti-terrorism measures with the imperative of maintaining trust and goodwill among the local population.
