The Defence Minister, Mr A.K. Antony, on Thursday said that the Chief of Army, General V.K. Singh, enjoys full confidence of the UPA Government. But there are indications that the Government is under pressure from a section of the Congress and some political parties to take “disciplinary action” against the General.

Addressing a press conference here, Mr Antony, said an investigation by the Intelligence Bureau is on to find out who leaked the letter written by General Singh to the Prime Minister. He said every possible attempt will be made to find out the real culprits “who have done this anti-national activity (leakage)”.

General Singh has also recommended strong action against those responsible for the leakage. “The leakage of the letter should be treated as high treason. Cynical approach to tarnish my reputation should stop. Sources of the leakage should be found and dealt with ruthlessly,” he said in a brief statement.

Sources in the Government indicated that the probe outcome would be crucial. Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal (U) and Rashtriya Janata Dal have already sought the Army chief' removal. Senior Congressman Mr Vayalar Ravi said that the Army chief had “crossed the line” by making public statements on sensitive issues. They also linked the entire issue with the recent controversy over the General's date of birth.

Officially, the Congress said its patience should not be viewed as its weakness. But, party insiders said that taking into account of the alleged indiscipline of the General, the Government should take a stern stand, and even sack him.

But, sources indicated that Mr Antony and a section of the Congress leadership were opposed to any such ‘adventurism'. Citing the controversial decision by the NDA regime to sack the then Navy chief, Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat, they believe that such a decision might politically backfire.

The BJP wanted a full probe into what has been said and written by the General, but was yet to take a clear stand on the issue. “We will wait and see,” a senior leader said.

The CPI (M) said the question of the General's removal does not arise at all. “Can anyone assure the nation that sacking of the Army chief will improve the situation? Don't divert from the real issue,” CPI (M) leader, Mr Sitaram Yechury, said.

jigeesh.am@thehindu.co.in

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