New Delhi, September 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Several military veterans have strongly criticised Congress spokesperson Reetam Singh over his remarks targeting retired Indian Army officers and their participation in television debates, politics and public discourse.
Singh had suggested that retired Army personnel should stay away from television, politics and news, arguing that their continued involvement could potentially pose a threat to civilian control and lead to circumstances witnessed in countries such as Pakistan and Bangladesh.
His comments came in response to remarks by Major General Harsha Kakar (retd.) concerning CJP spokesperson Saurav Dass. Singh also criticised veterans’ access to subsidised facilities at Defence canteens and alleged that retired officers appearing on television represented a “military industrial complex”.
He further suggested that Army personnel should sign a declaration upon retirement agreeing to stay away from politics, while saying their role was to follow orders from civilian authorities rather than influence political decision-making.
The comments triggered sharp reactions from veterans, including Maj Gen Kakar, Lt Gen P.R. Shankar and Colonel Rohit Dev, who said retired service personnel remain full citizens with constitutional rights.
Maj Gen Kakar questioned Singh’s appointment as a Congress spokesperson and defended his right to express his views after serving the country.
Lt Gen Shankar said the language used against veterans showed a lack of respect for the armed forces and warned that such remarks could have political consequences.
Colonel Rohit Dev stressed that veterans continue to vote, pay taxes and enjoy the freedom of expression and the right to contest elections like other citizens.
The veterans also underlined that India’s constitutional system ensures civilian control over serving armed forces personnel, while retirement does not take away an individual’s democratic rights.
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