With the BJP raising objection to the possible appointment of the next Army chief when election process is on, the Government has referred the issue to the Election Commission and will take any decision only after getting its nod.
Disclosing this here on Friday, Defence Minister AK Antony said “the matter is before the Election Commission. We want to strictly follow all the procedures before taking any final decision on the issue.” He had sought the Election Commission’s permission for appointment of Navy chief Robin Dhowan after the post fell vacant due to resignation of Admiral DK Joshi on February 26. Dhowan was appointed chief on April 16.
The issue of appointment of the next Army chief was referred to the Election Commission by the Defence Ministry earlier this week though the poll panel on March 27 said appointments, promotions, tenders and procurements are not covered under the Model Code of Conduct. The Commission said the Model Code of Conduct will also not apply for future elections for matters pertaining to Defence forces.
The BJP is opposing appointment of the next Army Chief by the incumbent Government, arguing that there was no hurry to do so and the matter should be left to the next Government.
Army Vice-Chief lt General Dalbir Singh Suhag is the frontrunner for the top job after present Army Chief General Bikram Singh retires on July 31. Traditionally, the appointment of chief of services is made two months before the retirement of the incumbent.
However, in the case of Bikram Singh, the appointment was announced three months before the retirement of then chief General VK Singh. In fact, his appointment was also made more than two months before his predecessor General Deepak Kapoor’s retirement.