‘Worrying that fake letters are being signed by vested groups, condemnable’: Nirmala Sitharaman

A letter purportedly signed by 156 veterans appealing against the politicisation of Indian Armed Forces was sent to President Ram Nath Kovind, according to social media posts.

Subsequently, news agency ANI quoted unnamed Rashtrapati Bhavan sources denying receipt of any such letter.

At least two former chiefs, former Air Chief Marshal NC Suri and former Army Chief General SF Rodrigues, who are listed as signatories, have denied their endorsements. While Rodrigues denied signing it, Suri was stated that his consent wasn’t taken. Former Army Vice Chief Lt General ML Naidu also denied giving his consent.

Speaking about the controversy, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said: “Two senior officers said they haven’t given consent. It is worrying that fake letters are being signed by vested groups. It is condemnable.”

The aforementioned letter which has been doing the rounds on social media carries the names of three former Army chiefs, four Navy chiefs and a retired Air Chief, besides several veterans. The letter mentions remarks by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Modiji ki Sena as objectionable and appeals to President to step in.

Update: Following contentions made by Suri and Rodrigues, former Navy chief Admiral L Ramdas wrote to the duo with proof of their prior endorsements.

Expressing shock, Ramdas also wrote: “I was so delighted when I saw both your signatures and endorsements to the letter from the Veterans to the President and Supreme Commander…I am therefore at a total loss as to why I have just had some inputs to say that both of you disclaim any knowledge of this letter and that you cannot associate yourself with the letter?!…There must be some misunderstanding or someone creating mischief.”