http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/indi ... 701236.cms
"Absolutely, it is within the Army. After 36 years, you suddenly decide to come up with an issue. There is something wrong with it," the Army Chief told reporters.
Well , he is clear in his blame. It is directed to two predecessors and no to Army itself.
"Problems should have been sorted out. There was a problem of coordination between the two branches. I had said earlier also that steps have been taken to ensure that such things will never recur in future," he added.
The branch which dealt with the service records in the ministry has been given full authority in these matters, he said.
I hope that this really works out.
On the issue of the letter by defence ministry, he said, "There is no rift (with defence ministry)... There is a normal procedure. Letter is sent and it is studied. Everything takes its time. It is not that letter comes and with the press of a button everything is done." Gen Singh was asked why the Adjutant General's (AG) branch of the Army was yet to respond to the January 23 letter of the defence ministry, directing it to change the date of birth record from May 10, 1951 to May 10, 1950.
I love this reply of his. MOD sends letter bypassing him and normal channel of communication and that too when matter is sub judice . Babus won't touch a matter in this manner if SC is seized of the matter.This shows the enormous pressure they face and are afraid that SC would pass stinking strictures. They know that their case is zilch and COAS is going to win hands down.
However such idiotic steps was not expected.
AKA's body language in that press conference was that of a man who is laden with guilt. Babus misguided him or army was at fault, but statutory complaints are addressed to Defence Minister and he should have acted wisely.
They should figure out how to work with COAS till 2013, and fast.