Journalism of Courage
Over 120 army men including 41 officers have been awarded exemplary punishment for committing human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir during the last 20 years.
Disclosing this in his message on the eve of Human Rights Day at Udhampur today,General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command,Lt General Sanjiv Chachra,said that,Of the 1,524 allegations of HR violations leveled during the past 20 years,42 involving 124 army personnel were found true; following investigation into each of them by an independent and autonomous body.
The guilty including 41 army officers and 83 JCOs and other ranks were expeditiously tried by army courts and awarded exemplary punishments ranging from dismissal from service without any service benefits to imprisonment,he added.
There are a few ongoing cases which are being closely monitored,ensuring rule of law and proceedings as enunciated by the Army Act, the Northern Army commander said,adding that anyone found guilty shall face the law. This amply demonstrates that all cases of alleged HR violations are thoroughly investigated and personnel found guilty promptly punished,he pointed out.
In his HR Day message,Lt General Chachra directed all the troops in Jammu Kashmir to ensure zero human rights violations during their counter terrorist operations. Pointing out that these operations require patience,maturity and restraint,he said,I know the task is onerous,but I have faith in your abilities. We must ensure at all times that the AWAAM (people) are not put to any inconvenience or harassment due to our actions he said while reiterating Army’s commitment of zero tolerance towards HR violations.
Pointing out that the Indian Army has one of the finest record for ensuring human rights,he said that the importance given to this valued quality is evident from the fact that an HR branch has been functional at the Army headquarters since March 1993. Such branches exist in formations up to Brigade and Sector level,he pointed out,adding that even a capsule course on the importance of respect for human rights is also conducted for troops undergoing pre-induction training at various battle schools.
He asked the troops to work for a peaceful 2014,adding that we are a People’s Army where we respect human life and take pride in our benevolent attitude towards women and children. This should continue to remain enshrined in our ethos and daily lives.
Reminding the troops that as professionals,they are here to serve the country,Lt General Chachra said,I am proud of each one of my officers,JCOs and men and compliment you for your dedication and sacrifice.
