Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Suicide in army

This refers to the article "Suicides in the armed forces" (Open Page, Dec. 17). The argument that suicides, though alarming in number, take place in the forces mainly for lack of a grievance redress machinery is quite far-fetched. As one associated with the Human Rights Cell in the Discipline and Vigilance Directorate of the Army Headquarters, I know there exits a well-established, transparent machinery to address complaints. Because of the unique nature of the armed forces, the system cannot be equated with the procedures in civil jurisprudence.

Of course, there is need to address the issue of suicides more comprehensively. Defence Minister A.K. Antony's statement on the occasion of Vijay Divas that the problem of jawans is more psychological and should be addressed thus is relevant.

Lt. Col. R.V.S. Mani (retd.),
Madurai

The article ought to serve as an eye-opener to the military top brass and policymakers. Officers should be sensitised to be receptive and to emphathise with the emotional trauma a subordinate is subjected to or goes through. Lending an ear to a subordinate does not in any way affect operational effectiveness. In this context, it may be worthwhile to suggest that the army should dispense with the anachronous and colonial post of batman — soldier assigned to an officer as a personal servant who is often used for domestic work.

C. Selvamani,
Bangalore

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