New Delhi: Retired Major General S.P. Sinha, who has stirred a controversy by appearing to endorse rape and murder as legitimate military tactics during a TV debate, apologised Monday and said he was in a “disturbed state of mind” after hearing “sordid” tales of torture.
In a hand-written letter addressed to the TV9 Bharatvarsh news channel, a copy of which was also marked to the additional director general of public information (ADGPI), Sinha said he regretted the episode and offered an apology.
“On hearing sordid and very rousing stories from the Kashmiri families who were present during discussion, I was very deeply moved. In the disturbed state of mind, I made remarks which were unwarranted,” he said in the letter.
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‘Death for death, rape for rape’
During the TV debate Sunday on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, Sinha, who was in the Ordnance Corps, asked “death in return for death, and rape in return for rape” to avenge the brutalities on Kashmiri Pandits.
His remarks drew an instant rebuke from fellow panelists as well as the woman anchor. The retired major general was asked to apologise but he had refused then.
Several Army veterans had also hit out at the former major general for his remarks.
The Army, meanwhile, distanced itself from Sinha’s remarks and said the retired officer does not come under the purview of the Code of Conduct for serving personnel or the Army Act.
Sources in the Army, however, said such remarks by an officer “who has never commanded soldiers in anti-terror operations or taken part in any such operations in the Valley” sullies the image of the force.
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This is a commentating for politicians. When we are kasam parade in before Alla Yesu Mohd, that is a final for Uniform soldiers , not for illegal categories.
Sir, please observe who is a abnormal, no question has been indicated, that’s why I am asking you, please reflect in before human beings not for media.
Only honest and brave persons like Gen Sinha can tender apology NOT cowards who indulge in criminal acts and always tell lies.
Army is for strict discipline and brotherhood Why he uttered these words is really shameful act He us really a blot in Indian Army Veteran Never taught such lines in defense forces How he reached such a senior position who talked likes Real Nonsense Shame on such officer
Major General (retd) S.P. Sinha Don’t say sorry, you belong to that culture.
Too much being made out of comment in heat of the moment. We should be more worried about actual crimes by jihadis rather than some words during heated exchange.