Surgical strike day: Let’s not make mockery of sacrifice by army
It is imperative that we remember the sacrifices our soldiers made, even as we hail the accomplishments of modern day India. If the nation has been able to stand shoulder to shoulder with many other strong countries post-independence, the main reason for this is the most noble form of sacrifice made by our soldiers. One of the most significant achievements of modern India is that its army has never interfered with democracy. Both segments have maintained a good distance between each other.
Defence forces has working to maintain democracy, and this is what sets India apart from Pakistan. Army has won many wars after India achieved independence. Kargil was out biggest feat. Army ensured the country didn’t have to spare even an inch of land in the disputed area. The defence forces freed Bangladesh from Pakistan when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister. They come up with new strategies to defeat the enemies and safeguard the interest of our nation. All such operations remain a closely guarded secret and never publicized. And it is not even wise to publicise them given the fact that army and national security is of prime importance.
Ever since Modi became the PM, accusations of politics interfering with army and its working have been heard from early days. The army heads have been embarrassed enough in the recent times owing to unnecessary statements made by union ministers. Surgical strike, claimed to be done by the army two years ago, had also created similar controversy for having killed terrorists in a flash operation by crossing over into the enemy side. But this is a normal course of work for the army. All other countries usually keep this a top secret than an issue of public consumption. The government tried to project this as some high level accomplishment after failing to stop terrorist attacks in Kashmir. Even if army did carry out such an operation, what is govt’s role in this? Why would the govt even claim credit for this job? Unfortunately, a very common defence operation was projected like a massive war victory and the defence minister held a press conference and dedicated this triumph to the people of RSS!
An outfit that had no role in Indian independence, and is responsible for most communal clashes without having to contribute any bit for the surgical strike, was given the credit of an operation that should have been the crowning glory of the defense forces. This way, the government humiliated the sacrifices made by the army.
Where was RSS when India won war against Pak, to free Bangladesh? How did it figure at the time of surgical strike, per se? At a time when terrorism has reached its peak in Kashmir, central government is going to celebrate Sep 29 as surgical strike day. A circular has been issued by the UGC to all universities and higher education institutions from the govt. A huge question remains as to how this would pan out in the future with regard to educational roadmap. All institutions understand this is a direct instruction by the government. The most funny thing is UGC is now supposed to answer questions regarding surgical strike and its impact on the country. If UGC feels these questions need not be answered, we will soon have to celebrate Modi day in Doklam. Also, a demonetization day to celebrate eradication of black money, along with GST day!
In all, this is an example of how the central government is interfering in higher education. If it is indeed true that the terrorist camps along the border were destroyed in a flash strike, we have to remain indebted to the army for having the chink in the armour to do so. If it was a success, who is continuing attack on our army in Kashmir now? Terrorism should have come to a standstill with this. But the continued attacks speak a different truth altogether. When this is the case, should the universities celebrate a ‘surgical strike’ day at all? Yes. We need to remember the sacrifices made by our soldiers and army. All the wars we won, and all the freedom we have has to be indebted to our defence forces. But instead of all this, if we begin to celebrate a surgical strike, it would be an insult to the army and misuse of UGC funds.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
