Indian Army Under BJP's Grip - South Asia Times

New Delhi, India – The Indian Army, long regarded as a pillar of the nation’s democracy, is currently under scrutiny amid allegations of politicization, corruption, and internal strife. Critics argue that the institution’s apolitical stance is being compromised, raising concerns about its operational effectiveness and morale.

Politicization Concerns

Observers have noted a growing alignment between the military leadership and the political objectives of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This shift has sparked debates about the potential erosion of the army’s traditional neutrality. The Caravan magazine highlighted instances where the military appears to be in tune with the political imperatives of the current government, suggesting a departure from its longstanding apolitical tradition.

Further analysis indicates that the Indian military has become a willing participant in the government’s political agenda, benefiting from the surge in hyper-nationalism observed in recent years.

Critics argue that the phrase “Modi ki Sena” is no longer just a political slogan but a reflection of reality, where loyalty to the Hindutva ideology increasingly influences promotions over battlefield competence. Reports indicate that factions within the military—particularly those linked to Uttarakhand and Nagpur—are playing a growing role in shaping military promotions, transforming the institution into a battleground for political power plays.

The promotion of General Manoj Pande is also under scrutiny, with accusations that his rise was shaped more by BJP-RSS backing than merit. Military analysts suggest that officers serving in Eastern or Northern Commands are being fast-tracked for promotions, while others find themselves sidelined.

Sainik Schools, traditionally seen as institutions producing professional soldiers, are now reportedly breeding ideological foot soldiers, with groupism and favoritism determining career trajectories.

Corruption Allegations

The integrity of the Indian Army has come under question due to reported cases of corruption. Notably, in 2021, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) named five Lieutenant Colonels, a Major, and a Lieutenant among 23 individuals in a probe into recruitment-related corruption within the army.

Additionally, reports suggest a significant number of corruption incidents within the army over the past decade, raising concerns about internal governance and accountability mechanisms. In total, 1,800 corruption cases have surfaced, ranging from recruitment scams to procurement fraud, severely damaging the army’s credibility.

Some critics allege that officers are now trading birthday gifts and personal favors with politicians, effectively turning military ranks into commodities available for sale.

Mental Health and Suicides

The mental well-being of armed forces personnel has emerged as a critical issue. Over the past five years, more than 700 personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces, National Security Guard, and Assam Rifles have died by suicide.

Furthermore, since 2001, over 3,300 Indian soldiers have taken their own lives, with more than 800 cases reported in the last five years alone. Experts attribute this crisis to a combination of family separations, suffocating stress, and political interference, creating a pressure cooker environment for soldiers.

In August 2024, an Enforcement Directorate officer under investigation for alleged corruption was found dead on a railway track near Delhi, with authorities treating the case as a suicide (India Today). Similarly, a suspended woman Colonel posted in Ambala reportedly attempted suicide by slashing her throat, highlighting the immense stress within the ranks.

Caste and Religious Discrimination in the Ranks

Reports suggest that Muslim officers in the Indian Army face a glass ceiling reinforced with Hindutva steel. David Smith’s book The Wellington Experience provides an account of how religious biases and discrimination impact Muslim officers’ careers.

Moreover, the President’s Bodyguard, an elite military unit, has been criticized for favoring specific caste groups—namely Rajputs, Hindu Jatts, and Sikh Jatts—reinforcing accusations of caste-based segregation within the armed forces.

Also See: The Cost of Silence: Why Indian Soldiers Are Taking Their Own Lives

The Takeaway

The convergence of politicization, corruption, and mental health crises presents significant challenges for the Indian Army. The growing influence of the BJP and RSS, along with ideological infiltration in promotions and decision-making, threatens the institution’s integrity and operational effectiveness. Addressing these issues is crucial for restoring the army’s credibility, professionalism, and trust among the Indian populace.

Disclaimer for news: This news has been compiled for informational purposes based on available data from official sources, eyewitness accounts, and publicly accessible information. Further developments will be reported as they emerge.