Low Morale of Indian Army

Soldiers are suppose to be the symbols of gallantry and dignity. Seems like Indian soldiers lack both of these codes.

The incidents of court of Inquiry has become a matter of routine in Indian Army. Many officers of Indian Army faced Courts of Inquiry on charges ranging from failure of command and control to cowardice and desertion, during service. During Kargil war, an Indian army officer was court marshalled upon his refusal to lead his troops up the Tiger hill. I wonder increase in Indian defence spending would be of any use when soldiers are pulling desperate measures to save themselves from combat and perhaps certain death.

A report in Indian Magazine "Out Look" under the caption of "War and Watch-Hunts" says these army officers include mostly ranks of Major and below, Junior Commissioned Officers and jawans. It says "None of the generals, whose duty it was to conduct the kargil war is facing any official inquiry for their flawed leadership. Instead, two of them have been decorated and awarded with plum posting. This has triggered enormous resentment among the junior officers and men.


The magazine quoted a senior general at army headquarters as saying," It was a foolhardy battle, which sent officers and men to certain death. Junior officers have been made scape-goats since the seniors who bungled are known to be close to the chief."

In Srinagar, officers believe that there has been selective victimisation even of JCOs. "JCOs simply follow the orders of their immediate superiors. By targeting them, the seniors are only demoralising the vital link between officers and ORs (other ranks) personnel.

These resentments and low moral has become the causal factor of suicidal attempts in Indian ARMY.