JOIN USDon't succumb to corruption, says Antony
“Time and cost overruns apart, there is always the danger of falling prey to corrupt practices perpetrated by vested interests in the garb of aggressive marketing. I strongly urge you all to stand guard with resolve against any such overtures. You must strive to uphold sincerity, probity and fair play, even in your day to day administrative work”, Antony told Army commanders.
Addressing the commanders of Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) separately, A K Antony asked them to strive for probity and fair play in their day-to-day dealings. The warning from the minister comes at a time when the image of the armed forces is sullied in various corruption charges involving top generals.
With India all set to decide on multi-billion dollar deals to buy 126 fighters, attack and light-weight helicopters and heavy-lift transport aircraft, there are apprehensions in various circle on underhand deals to favour specific companies in violation of norms.
“At times, the vested interests bring about unnecessary pressure and resort to corrupt practices that can wreak serious havoc upon our security in more ways than one. We must resist such efforts collectively and resolutely in national interests. I urge you to remain vigilant, cautious and alert to any wrongdoing at all times,” A K Antony said at the Indian Air Force commander’s conference.