Letter row: Congress adopts cautious approach; rules out the possibility of dismissing General Singh

NEW DELHI: As the row between the government and Army chief General VK Singh worsened, Congress on Wednesday advocated a cautious approach, as it felt that his dismissal was not an answer.

Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi also steered clear of Union minister Vayalar Ravi's hard hitting attack on the Army chief, saying the incident reflected "frustrations" of an individual, who had to withdraw his petition on the age row in the Supreme Court.

Rashid Alvi said, "Those who are dedicated to the country naturally feel the angst when they hear such things."

Asked specifically whether he endorsed what Ravi said, the Congress spokesman kept on repeating "I have said whatever I had to say".

"Our view is that the issue related to armed forces is always very sensitive. To be commenting on it or making it a matter of public discussion has never been beneficial," Alvi said.

A Congress party leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, ruled out the possibility of dismissal of Singh "as of now" despite some opposition parties making this demand.

"Dismissal will create one more problem. It will set a wrong precedent. What impression will go outside if Army chief is dismissed. Even otherwise he is going to retire in the next two months. The Army chief should carry on unless he creates some another problem in future," the leader said. He also found fault with the timing of Singh's letter wondering why he did not choose to send it earlier.

On the controversy surrounding Singh's statement that he was offered bribe, Alvi said it was for Singh to pursue the case or make a complaint in writing if he wanted the government to investigate the matter. Alvi refused to accept that the latest row shows a disconnect between the government and the forces, saying the matter concerned only one individual.

At the AICC briefing, Alvi evaded a direct reply when asked what could be the next step of the government over the controversy.