On Admiral Ramdas’ passing on March 15, 2024, we find it relevant to reproduce this article we published as cover story in the tabloid issue of our magazine; an article that touches on issues of hate and bigotry that beset us still.

THE FIRE NEXT TIME

Admiral Ramdas & Lalita Ramdas

January 30, 1996

An impassioned plea to the nation for communal sanity, respect for the rule of law and social justice, penned on Martyr’s Day, by the former chief of the naval staff and his wife, ADMIRAL RAMDAS and LALITA RAMDAS

AS THE nation pays its ritualistic homage to the Mahatma today, Martyr’s Day our minds go back to the basic is-sue for which Gandhiji laid down his life — building harmony and goodwill, especially between Hindus and Muslims, the two major communities in this land. The phenomena of political violence that began through that action of a fanatic has continued to haunt us over all these years as religion is used more and more cynically as a political tool to incite communal passions.

Eleven years ago, in November 1984, many of us were jolted out of our comfortable existence when the assassination of yet another Gandhi —Indira —, let loose the most atrocious spate of vengeance and killing of thousands of innocent God fearing Sikhs in the Capital.

We were living between Delhi and Vizag in those days — the Admiral commanding the Eastern Fleet, the wife continuing to work with an NGO in Delhi’s resettlement areas.

On the afternoon of October 31, 1984, we had just ended a staff meeting at Ankur, a small urban NGO, when the first news came about Mrs. Gandhi’s assassination and tension in the city. We had Sikh women among a wide range of other Ankur teachers — some had long distances to travel to get home. I spent hours on the telephone, gathering reports of growing incidents, fires, ugly mob behaviour, from across the city.

Several hours and phone calls later, a few of us made our way to one of the worst affected areas, curfew notwithstanding. It was in this way that I came to be among the many who came to help —shocked out of our wits at the carnage, the senseless killing of husbands, sons, fathers and brothers. We worked under the banner of Nagrik Ekta Manch.

I was assigned to take charge of the Relief Camp at Nanaksar, my daughters and other friends were working at Farsh Bazaar — the two key holding camps where the victims from East Delhi were brought. For nearly two weeks we worked round the clock, recording affidavits and eyewitness accounts from hundreds and hundreds of widows, their daughters and young sons who survived and had fled for their lives.

Night after night, my home at 32, Lodi Estate became like an Operations Control Room, as the two teams met and systematically filled up hundreds of cards with information —name, house number, gali, who came, who did you see, how did your husband die… And there was a clear pattern emerging — of systematic, planned and merciless slaughter, as also of names that came up over and over again — H.K.L Bhagat being one of the leading figures among many other luminaries.

The news of Bhagat’s arrest was followed shortly by the shocking announcement of the winding up of the Srikrishna Commission of Inquiry by the present regime in Maharashtra…We would like to add our voices to all those others and register our serious disapproval and dismay at this undemocratic action

Painful lessons were also learned along the way about the attitudes and increasing communalisation — especially among the well-to-do, the elite. I can still count the many doors slammed in our faces in the posh areas of New Delhi as we went around seeking clothes, food, medicines…

Months later, I was called to testify before the Ranganath Misra Commission. I had worked painstakingly to put together a huge file of sworn testimonies, affidavits, as also a personal report to add to all the others that had been presented to the Commission. But it was a depressing and disheartening experience, to say the least. From 1984 till my husband’s posting out of Delhi in end 1987, I worked in Tilak Vihar, where most of the widows were “rehabilitated”, along with several others.

It appeared that all our efforts to secure justice and to punish the perpetrators were coming to naught. I left Delhi unhappy, disturbed about the situation — imagine the impact on the young children who were growing up in an atmosphere which was certainly not designed to deal with the trauma and the bitterness in-side — and completely disillusioned about our political, bureaucratic and judicial system.

For the wife of a service man to be involved in this kind of work is itself unusual. For her to tread on ground which would clearly be seen as “political” was nothing short of a “hot potato”! For us as a family it was a hard time and called for many tough decisions. Most of those whom we consulted advised us that Mrs. Ramdas should not testify — there was no telling the effect it could have on her husband’s naval career!

The family discussed the issue. This was too serious, a matter of conscience and principle, and we agreed that she should testify and place on record all the devastating evidence gleaned through months of heart-breaking work.

By some in-explicable set of events, and despite all these “unconventional” activities of different family members, the V.P. Singh government saw fit to select Admiral Ramdas to head the Indian Navy as the Chief of Naval Staff. We re-turned to Delhi in 1990.

The years 1984 and 1992 taught us in no uncertain terms that the virus of communal thinking had al-ready taken root among far too many of our own friends and colleagues. There was no question but to combat this in every way and at every opportunity. The phenomena of several retired servicemen joining hands with avowedly rightwing, communal political parties had already begun — a warning signal to all those who believed in India’s secular vision and Constitution.

This period saw more violence, to yet another Gandhi —this time it was Rajiv. It was also during this tenure as Naval Chief that the second lot of major communal horrors occurred. It was the destruction of Babri Masjid this time, with all that went on before and, most horrendously, what hap-pined after.

“This is perhaps not the time or place to speak of the attempts made by me as Service Chief, to push the political system and government to take some action before it was too late. It was clear that the situation was building towards a show-down of some kind. However, it is only too easy for bureaucrats and politicians to ignore advice which is unpalatable, the bogey of Civil vs Military control continues to be a block to any real teamwork or dialogue even at the highest levels.”

And so it was with an inevitability that could almost be predicted, that the mosque came down, more communal frenzy was unleashed, and once again, as in 1984, poor and dispossessed communities of one sect were deliberately incited to perpetrate unspeakable acts of barbarism against the poorest Muslims of Bombay, Surat and elsewhere. Inevitably these led to more destruction, retaliation and deaths.

Once again citizens and NGOs swung into action. Com-missions of Inquiry were established and the due processes of law were begun. Painstakingly, evidence was recorded. Though media moved on to more exciting issues, the Srikrishna Commission seemed to be the one area of continuing hope, where com-mitted and dedicated lawyers and others systematically piled up evidence which might bring the guilty to book.

Time moved on, and so did we. Having done what we could to spread a more secular and progressive culture within the Service, we retired and moved out of Delhi in late 1993. The years 1984 and 1992 taught us in no uncertain terms that the virus of communal thinking had already taken root among far too many of our own friends and colleagues. There was no question but to combat this in every way and at every opportunity.

The phenomena of several retired servicemen joining hands with avowedly right-wing, communal political parties had already begun – a warning signal to all those who believed in India’s secular vision and Constitution.

Today, we are ordinary citizens again, and have been living in this little village in the Konkan, building a roof over our heads and learning about the realities of rural life.

The economics of survival, the struggle for water, fuel, employment, a clean administration (!), dependence on the family as the main social security; propitiating the rain gods, and preserving faith in someone up there – be it Allah or Ram, these continue to be the defining parameters of people where we live, even today.

Science and technology, while having invaded the area all around here — RCF, IPCL, Nippon Denro and many more — has not materially impacted the daily existence of the bulk of the people for the better. The wells in our village, Bhaimala, are already dry, the fish in the rivers and coastal waters are no longer there thanks to the poisonous effluents discharged by every single industry. (And we are speaking of a relatively progressive state like Maharashtra, albeit the back-ward Konkan region).

“This is perhaps not the time or place to speak of the attempts made by me as Service Chief, to push the political system and government to take some action before it was too late. It was clear that the situation was building towards a show-down of some kind:’

Whilst realising that religion, culture and daily living are inextricably inter-woven for the mass of our people, we have also seen that the average villager is basically a simple, god-fearing and fundamentally SECULAR human being. It is only the machinations and sinister agendas and preaching by party organisers which gradually transform good people into developing a warped communal prejudice and bias.

Once again, as we have done throughout our nomadic existence, we began to get to know our new environment and to project through what-ever forums we could, the message of secularism, of integration, in the only way that we have known best – one of personal precept and example.

Gradually people are get-ting to understand that this “odd couple” are actually Tamil (Brahmin) and Telugu (non-Brahmin) by birth; domiciled in Matunga, Maharashtra, where the Admiral’s family moved many decades ago. They have met, interacted with, and accepted our daughters, and our three sons-in-law — a Bihari-Muslim-US/Pakistani; an Andhra rural activist; and a Bihari-Madhya Pradeshi combination.

We have spoken from the platforms of the Shiv Sena, Congress and Shetkari Sangathana, stressing always that the strength of India lies in this very plurality which has also been the bedrock of life in the Navy and in the other Services.

After a long absence — we have been travelling extensively across south east Asia, (including China, for the Beijing Conference), the USA, South Africa we returned a few weeks ago to welcome 1996. Some things don’t change. It was a strong feeling of deja vu to see the usual agonising over the ‘state of the Nation’ in both the print and the electronic media.

With all the depressing disclosures in the Hawala case, the amusement at the re-emergence of a suddenly white-washed Enron, and the usual mud-slinging that heralds an election build-up, the one re-deeming news .item was the announcement of H.K.L Bhagat’s arrest, “illness” and hospitalisation. Yes, we thought, the wheels of justice grind slowly, but they grind surely.

The faces of the widows stood out so clearly in the mind’s eye – their grief, turning to anger, pain and total cynicism in the system of governance and justice. What must be the thoughts in their minds as they are called upon to testify against this man because of whom and many others their lives and futures had been ruined forever?

Most persons advised us that Mrs. Ramdas should not testify — there was no telling the effect it could have on her husband’s naval career! .. but.. This was too serious, a matter of conscience and principle, and we agreed that she should testify and place on record all the devastating, evidence..

But our joy and relief was short-lived. The news of Bhagat’s arrest was followed shortly by the shocking announcement of the winding up of the Srikrishna Commission of Inquiry by the present regime in Maharashtra. There has been widespread condemnation of this from several quarters. We would like to add our voices to all those others and register our serious disapproval and dismay at this undemocratic action -unacceptable in a country and state which claims to respect the rule of law and the constitution.

Inevitably, the voices that are raised seem to be largely the same voices – from the few urban activists, who are seen to be the protestors on all issues! While it is easy to raise a voice of protest and find space in the English language newspapers, it is not so easy to build up a really effective movement against such practices. (We have seen that vitiating the democratic process is not the prerogative of any one political party).

For an effective movement to evolve, there is no substitute for a much more painstaking, long term process whereby the ‘people in my gaon and yours, every basti and colony, can really be concerned and raise their voices. As of now, to the Archana Bais and Bharatis, the Gawdas, the Mhatres and the Patils on our farm and in our gaon, as much as to the women in our Bhaimala village, Mahila Mandal, Ranganath Misra and H.K.L Bhagat, Srikrishna and NHRC (National Human Rights Commissions) are not even familiar names, for-get about their being issues around which to rally support and protest. Until that hap-pens, human rights and due process of law will continue to be stamped upon and violated at will.

More than ever there is a need for a very different process of education – education for citizenship and democracy – which can truly build towards a sustainable grass-roots democracy, and which is the only sure and effective measure that can guard against the march of fascist and dictatorial tendencies which are raising their heads on all sides.

For all the education com-missions and new and alternate education policies, the Literacy Mission and foundations, no political party is actually interested in creating a genuine critical and thinking mass of people in this country. Therefore, we continue to churn out human products who are trapped somewhere between ritual and orthodoxy, and superficial modernity of the worst kind — the variety vacuously dished out by the hundreds of TV Channels.

Many of us are frustrated, searching desperately for alternatives, be they alternate political formations or platforms of some kind. Invariably these efforts seem to surface just before the next election – when it is perhaps already too late. There is need for many more of us at all levels and ages to talk to each other about these issues — not only in the context of an election but on an ongoing basis.

As persons with a defence background and with more and more unthinking comment about military takeover being the only ‘salvation’ doing the rounds, we need to be clear that this is the most dangerous of philosophies to propagate. Yet it is one which finds far too many takers, especially among the educated middle classes.

We urgently need to develop a totally new paradigm and a national level under-standing of the much (mis)used term “National Security” whereby the people in whose name wars are fought, can also understand the issues and have a say. Decisions on serious issues such as the Nuclear Question, Kashmir, Water and much else are being dictated by the minimum of discussion and debate let alone evolving any national position or consensus.

Painful lessons were also learned along the way about the attitudes and in-creasing communalisation — especially among the well-to-do, the elite. I can still count the many doors slammed in our faces in the posh areas of New Delhi as we went around seeking clothes, food, medicines…

Why can’t all parties agree to come together to seriously address these concerns and develop a long term perspective as a large, mature nation can and should. But this too demands the involvement of several sectors from across the board. There are too many issues jostling for priority and we have increasingly lost sight of the basics.

Two years in rural India has taught us many lessons and shown us only too clearly the limits of the gospel of liberalisation. If any-thing, it has brought even greater hardships and precious little advance for those who live cheek by jowl with the biggest industrialists. But an alternative model has not yet emerged. For all the talk about such a model, these have not yet left the drawing boards.

With polls around the corner, perhaps the first step is to work with the electorate and persuade people to turn in what Krishan Kant and others have termed a negative vote, that is, blank papers. Perhaps that could be a first step to-wards collective responsible behaviour towards the people.

Maybe it is the only way to upturn and boot out many of the “bandicoots”, to use a term coined by my colleague, the then Army Chief, for which he had his knuckles severely rapped! It certainly appears that the judiciary is taking steps to do so – increasingly, the Supreme Court appears to be the only source of decision-making and action!

It is also time that many more of us actually got involved with the community – especially the vast neglected numbers who live in the villages across this land in an effort to truly play a watch-dog and monitoring role, so that communities have the confidence and capability to ensure that the monies spent actually go for the development for which it is intended. It is not always necessary to stand for election in order to do something effective on the ground.

Certainly there is a long, long road ahead — and many miles to go before any of us really deserve to sleep. But there are also challenges and opportunities aplenty for the adventurous, there is enough mental and physical stimulus to keep both mind and body healthy and happy.

Listening to all of this, the Mahatma whose martyrdom we observe today would have certainly said with a chuckle: “But I told you so — there is no easy road to Freedom.”

(Admiral L Ramdas (Retd)
PVSM AVSM VrC VSM
Former chief of the Naval
Staff

&

Ms. Lalita Ramdas
Ramu Farm —’Lara’
Alibag — 402201
Raigad Dist
Maharashtra

In July 1995, we had to suspend publication of Communalism Combat, not because the battle for secularism and democracy had already been won but because we ran into financial difficulties.We are extremely grateful to Ms. Shabana Azmi, Mr. Farooque Shaikh, Mr. Javed Siddiqui and Mr. Feroz Khan for giving us a free show of their very popular play, Tumhari Amrita. Thanks to them and our sponsors for the show, we are back on the road. We are equally grateful to many prominent citizens of Bombay and other well-wishers who have helped us raise additional funds through patron subscriptions (Please see the last page).Nor can we forget our advertisers who have reaffirmed their support in helping us spread a simple message: Hate hurts, harmony works.This issue of Combat will convince you, we hope, that the struggle for tolerance is far from over. To live up to that challenge, we continue to depend on your support.—Editors

The post The Fire next time: an impassioned plea to the nation for communal sanity appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Teesta Setalvad     Javed Anand

A personal (and professional) tribute

To converse and be with Lolly (Lalita) and Ramu (former Admiral Ramdas) was to  see and behold and admire a couple who have been since we knew them– as Editors, Communalism Combat, as also activists and fellow citizens–always two peas in a pod.

Lalita Ramdas is and was always the light of Ramu’s eye and inspiration

(I still remember how he so candidly write for us in Communalism Combat, (June 1998) about his re-visiting his position as a man of the forces to a determinedly anti-nuke position within days, in June 1998 –shedding years of armed force orientation since age 15.)

Buddha Purnima to Amavasya, we called it and it stands proud in the archives of Communalism Combat. The strapline says it all: Admiral Ramdas, former chief of the Indian Navy, who felt ‘proud’ on May 11, now wants the ‘madness’ to stop

Ramu wrote then about how that re-positioning evolved and came about.

And we also recall and bring to you the piece—ever so honest, jointly written by them that we published as cover story for Communalism Combat (March 1996). They had penned it on Martyr’s Day, January 30, 1996,

“An impassioned piece for communal sanity, respect for the rule of law and social justice,” penned by Admiral Ramdas and Lalita Ramdas, exclusively on Communalism Combat.

The Fire Next Time, we titled it.

There is no better way to pay tribute to Ramu then to speak to Lolly.

And she says today, “We want all our friends to know that we are not mourning Ramu’s demise; we are celebrating his life and spirit. We want all our friends and comrades to celebrate ‘him’ with us; celebrate his indomitable spirit that refused to be cowed down by the mighty and the authoritarians! Ramu will continue to be with us in our peaceful struggles for secularism, peace, rights, justice and human dignity! As passionately as always…”

In losing Ramu we say good bye to the era of civil, rational and fair public servant, who served his people and his country as only he knew how, with head and heart. Even in a less than conscious condition, just a few days back, he turned to Lolly to say, “What is happening with India and Pakistan?”

A question that honestly begs a real answer.

Teesta Setalvad                            Javed Anand

We reproduce the June 1998 piece here for young readers to re-visit and understand our times

Buddha Purnima to Amavasya

Admiral Ramdas, former chief of the Indian Navy, who felt ‘proud’ on May 11, now wants the ‘madness’ to stop

The news of the Indian nuclear blasts came as a total surprise to many on the evening of May 11. It was also the same in the Ramdas household except with a difference. My wife was totally shocked, depressed and angry, whereas I felt good, proud and, secretly, even happy. My own immediate reactions were triggered by the thought that we have at last decided to tell the arrogant ‘Nuclear Haves’ that enough is enough and we also need to be counted in this world.

The Pakistan-India Peoples Forum for Peace and Democracy (PIPFPD), India Chapter, was keen to issue a statement condemning these tests, but I found myself unable at that time to go along with the draft that finally ensued and released to the press. This was not a very happy situation considering that I was, and still am, the acting-president of the PIPFPD.

This was further worsened by the wanton jingoism displayed by many important leaders in India who ought to have known better. One thing led to the other and events moved inexorably to the inevitable, when on May 28, Chagai Hills in Baluchistan burst into a whitish glow by the tremendous heat and gamma radiation of the Pakistani tests. The leadership on both sides of the border had outdone each other in the display of their madness and in the rape of Nature!

From the night of May 11 until June 3, I underwent a colossal debate within myself. One part of me was feeling elated, yet there was this other part telling me that there is something very wrong here. Almost 45 years of my life, from the age of 15 to 60, were in naval uniform. I had been brought up in the military environment and belonged to the ‘System’ or the ‘Establishment’. Years of training, brainwashing, discipline, learning the art of naval warfare and technology, being an active member and architect of many projects and schemes, all combined to generate the predictable kind of immediate reactions to our tests. It was almost like reflex action which I am sure readers will understand.

Cooler reflection and a critical analysis of the nuclear tests by India and Pakistan and the security and strategic implications became obvious. The great manthan in my mind had finally churned out the answer. This madness which has landed both India and Pakistan in a total mess must stop before things get out of hand. However, the one thing that this ‘madness’ has done is to initiate a wider public debate on nuclear weapons and their relevance to humanity, with particular reference to the sub- continent and its problems. In the wake of the tests, much has been written and spoken in the press and electronic media about the security and other compulsions that forced India to execute Pokhran II (PokhranI 1 was in 1974). It is obvious today that the timing of the tests was more for meeting domestic political requirements and less for security and strategic reasons.

The traditional arguments put forward by the hawks, namely, deterrence, status, power, and our ability to ‘stand tall’, no longer have any credibility and need to be debunked.

The so called proven effectiveness of the deterrence theory in the Cold War has no relevance in the Indo-Pak scenario. In the Cold War, there was never any dispute between the two great super powers, except for propagating their ideological isms and thereby hoping to influence other nations. In the subcontinent, however, there are many outstanding problems that need to be resolved, including the burning issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Clearly, nothing but a political understanding will really resolve these issues and not nuclear bombs and missiles!

I believe large sections of our peoples have not really understood what a nuclear war implies. Most of them still believe it to be an additional new weapon which will kill the enemy and win the war. But there are no winners in a nuclear war. The horrors of a nuclear holocaust are so different that we need to give this wide publicity. Whilst both countries claim to having set up command and control systems, and fool proof methods for initiating a nuclear attack, I would like to sound a note of caution for the information of our peoples in both our countries. Given the best will in the world there are always many things that can go wrong. Human and material failures are not uncommon.

Even in the area of conventional weapons we have been witness to things going wrong. But the price you pay is miniscule when compared to a similar mistake in this ‘Nuclear weaponised sub-continent’. Any and every approaching missile has to be interpreted as one with a nuclear warhead, which is the first step in the nuclear escalation ladder and mutual destruction. One may argue that this horrendous scenario itself guarantees security as this will deter any such action. This argument is difficult to buy as mutual fears and suspicions continue to exist. No one is likely to believe that the other will honour a non-first- use agreement even if we were to sign it. Where does that then lead us?

Given the kind of emotive leadership in both our countries the risks of accidental or deliberate use to preempt the other, cannot therefore be ruled out. To illustrate the point, India’s minister for parliamentary affairs taunted Pakistan to name the place, date and the venue for the next war. Not to be left behind, the foreign minister of Pakistan boasted the other day that they shall win a war with India in 90 minutes. These are the realities that we are up against.

For all these and many other reasons, today I am committed to the campaign for a ban on all nuclear weapons, right across the world. Perhaps this is also the historic moment for India and Pakistan to understand that both our destinies are intrinsically linked through geography and history. Realpolitik and self-preservation demands that the leadership in both India and Pakistan rise above our previous strongly held positions to defuse this highly dangerous situation.

There is absolutely no justification for any of the ‘Nuclear Haves’ to hold nuclear weapons on national security or any other ground. The need of the hour, though, is for both India and Pakistan to cap their entire nuclear and missile programme and to join hands into pressurise the Pancha Pandavas — the Nuclear Haves — to downsize and subsequently totally eliminate all nuclear weapons in a promulgated time frame.

This may sound too far-fetched to many, but do we really have a choice?

Related:

From a former Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral Ramdas to Rahul Gandhi

The world is watching us: former Admiral L Ramdas to PM Modi and Pres. Kovind

Open Letter to the President of India from former Chief of Indian Navy, Admiral L Ramdas

The post Adieu Ramu, Admiral Ramdas, a public servant of civility, grace and conviction; for you, a personal & professional tribute appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Admiral Laxinarayan Ramdas, the oldest living former Chief of the Naval Staff from 1990-1993, responded to discussions among citizens on invitations to join the Bharat Jodo Yatra launched by Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi. Having lived in Delhi, in those “terrible years before partition” as he recalls, he witnessed first-hand the trauma of hate and communal violence that overtook us. 

He wrote this letter to Rahul Gandhi last month, in response to some interaction with many civil society groups and individuals with respect to an invitation to join the BJY (Bharat Jodo Yatra) initiative and has shared this publicly on the eve of Diwali. 

He writes on how countless Indians have welcomed the “focus, thrust and message being sent forth as a necessary and timely one…where the politics of hate and divisiveness must be countered with those of love, hope and Fraternity….indeed our Constitutional vision..” behind the Yatra. 

The letter to Rahul Gandhi, written in his individual capacity, reflects his “deeply held belief and perspective about what is the spirit and essence of our land and her diverse people, faiths, cultures communities, histories and unique heritage. It is this that we are seeking to revive and strengthen by being part of this unique pad yatra.”

Admiral Ramdas, or Ramu as he is fondly calls writes on behalf of himself and his life partner, Lolly : 

“This is why both of us, Lolly and I, are hoping to join the yatra, even if for a short while, as it transits Hyderabad next week. We have been following with interest the tremendous response, support, excitement and hope that the yatra has generated as it has made its way across five states so far. The prospect of being out on the street and in touch with people, after a long time, is definitely helping the feel good factor!” 

In the letter (full text below) Admiral Ramdas vividly recalls every word of the Tryst with Destiny speech made by Rahul Gandhi’s great grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, on that midnight of August 14-15, 1947. He was fourteen at the time and “with fire in my belly, joined the newly independent armed forces, determined to serve and protect our hard won democracy and freedom – with ‘fraternity’ being the defining vision of the new India.”

That India stood for equality, pluralism, diversity and social justice! 

Here is the text of the letter: 

Admiral L Ramdas
PVSM, AVSM, VrC, VSM
Former Chief of the Naval Staff
Magsaysay Award for Peace
Father Staines Award for Communal harmony Govt: of Maharashtra Gaurav Puraskar

Dear Shri Rahul Gandhi,

Bharat Jodo Yatra

First, allow me to introduce myself.

Lara-Ramu Farm Bhaimala
P.O. Kamarle Alibag-402209 Dist: Raigad Maharashtra

26 Sep 2022

I am Admiral Ramdas, the oldest living former Chief of the Naval Staff [ 1990-1993].

I lived in Delhi in those terrible years before partition – and have witnessed at first hand the trauma of communal hate and senseless violence that overtook us.

I vividly recall every word of the Tryst with Destiny speech made by your great grandfather on that midnight of 14/15th August 1947. I was fourteen and
with fire in my belly, and joined the newly independent armed forces, determined to serve and protect our hard won democracy and freedom – with ‘fraternity’ being the defining vision of the new India.

Alas, much water has flown down the Ganga since then and today we find ourselves struggling to reclaim our democracy in an increasingly polarized scenario.

The current initiative of the Bharat Jodo Yatra is very timely and much needed. Hopefully we will join hands across party affiliations and reach out with the all-important message of saying NO to hate and YES to love and peace and Fraternity.

Had I been younger and fitter, I would have walked beside you and persuaded many others of the veterans’ community to do likewise. Alas my health does not permit, so will have to be content by following you from afar.

As we approach Gandhi Jayanti on Oct 2 – it is especially appropriate that the tried and tested forms of nonviolent direct action like the traditional Pada Yatra that Gandhiji revived and used with such effect to confront, challenge, and conquer colonial and imperial power, should once again become the chosen method of direct mass contact.

Wishing all success and more power to all who walk together in the Bharat Jodo Yatra (BJY).

May this movement serve to revive our democratic values, bring the Public back into the Republic, and above all to breathe new life and meaning into one of our revered ancient principles, of which our nation has always been so proud – ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam’

Laxminarayan [Ramu] Ramdas

Just

Ramu – with Lolly [without whom I would not be able to undertake such a venture!]

Related

Bharat Jodo pragmatism of the Congress & illusions of the progressives

Two days on a yatra; that tiny glimmer

The post From a former Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral Ramdas to Rahul Gandhi appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Twenty years ago, at the end of February 2002, we were in Palo Alto with our daughter, towards the end of a successful lecture tour organised by friends – to build a coalition of groups and voices prepared to stand up against the proliferation of nuclear weapons.

It was with horror and disbelief that we watched on the news, the unfolding of the tragic events starting February 27, into the first week of March… from Godhra to Ahmedabad and across the state.

• The burnt train at Godhra – the incendiary speeches and broadcasts

• The fires, the killings, the mayhem 

• The deliberate targeting of all those belonging to one community

• The brutality of rapes and murders of Muslim women

• A state and a people gone mad with blood lust

• The inaction of the State Police

• The deliberate delay in calling in the Army Units who had been flown in but remained in their barracks for the crucial 48 to 72 hours before being ordered to “restore peace, law and order”.

Were these indeed images of our land and our people? That too in Gandhiji’s Gujarat?

Being many thousand miles away was the toughest of all – what to believe – what to dismiss as exaggerated reports? This was before the WhatsApp pandemic had hit us.

Then slowly as calls and eye witness accounts started trickling in – the dreadful reality slowly began to hit home, and we could no longer escape from the numbing truth that this was indeed true – for the most part, it was deliberately organised violence leading to communal carnage. The world began calling it a Pogrom, and worse – Genocide.

I did the only thing I could do at that time, which was to write an anguished letter to my Prime Minister – Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee – one of the hardest things to do.  I am sharing extracts herewith:

Needless to add, there was no acknowledgement let alone a response. This has, sadly been the fate, for the most part, of many of the letters and statements addressed to either the Honourable President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, or indeed to the Prime Minister. But of that, another time.

To return to the tragedy of Gujarat… The letter from America was dated March 11, 2002. We returned home to India by end of March – but were part of the ongoing, intense debates and discussions that accompanied the public outrage and shock following the events in Gujarat.

Inter Faith Fact Finding and Peace Mission – April 2002

In early April of 2002, a number of us, representing many sectors and faiths, decided to make a visit to Gujarat. Many of us had known each other and worked on peace and conflict issues earlier. We had been in continuous touch with each other ever since the terrible events of Feb 28 – March 2 when the Indian Army was finally provided the necessary facilities and invited to provide ‘aid to civil power’.

Although the worst of the carnage was over by the time we visited Gujarat a month later – it was clear that the people, especially the minorities, were both insecure and faced continuing harassment and abuse.

Our purpose was simple and clear – to gather facts from a variety of sources and to try to restore a sense of confidence among the people. Hence the composition of people from all faiths. These included the late Nirmala Deshpande who led the delegation; the Late Swami Agnivesh; John Dayal, Navaid Hamied; Admiral Ramdas – to name a few…

Knowing that a special Army Unit had been deployed to Gujarat, I decided to call on the General in charge and apprise him of our mission and our presence in the city. It was a pleasure to meet Lt Gen Zameeruddin Shah, and receive a briefing. I remember very clearly that this was an era before the mobile phone had become popular – and my wife had thrust our newly acquired phone into my pocket just before I left for Gujarat. I mention this in light of subsequent events.

Nirmala Didi’s colleague and friend had generously offered to accommodate the group in ‘Eswar Bhavan’ where he lived. No sooner had we moved in, we were virtually ‘gheraoed’ – by elements who clearly knew who we were. 

One could guess their political affiliation, when we were told to “send out the Muslim members of the group” or else face arson and attacks on the entire group. How much more brazen could they get?

After a quick consultation we decided to move to the well-known Sabarmati Ashram, so as not to embarrass or endanger our well-meaning host.

But the unrelenting mobs followed us to the Ashram – with loud demands that we could only stay ‘if the Muslim members of the group were sent out’! At this point I realized that things may get worse, and the Sabarmati Ashram may itself be threatened. 

I therefore decided to call the General, popularly known as “Zoom” Shah, and explained our predicament. He said don’t move sir, we shall do something very soon. Sure enough, in about ten minutes two jeeps with mounted Machine guns appeared from either side of the road, no sooner were they sighted, the members of the “Goonda Mob” scurried away. Just shows the effect of the mere presence of the ARMY. And yet it is a point to ponder seriously and ask the question why it took three days before the Army was deployed on the streets of Ahmedabad and elsewhere?

In 2018, on the occasion of the release of Gen Shah’s book called ‘Sarkari Mussalman’, I remember being distressed to read that some senior officers of the Army had expressed concerns about “Zoom” aka an officer named ‘Zameeruddin’ being tasked with leading troops for this sensitive mission. It was good to hear that Gen Padmanabhan, then Chief of Army Staff, did exactly what I had myself done in 1971 – disregarded the voices of dissent and suspicion, and told ‘Zoom’ to proceed on this mission. As Captain of the INS BEAS in the 1971 operations, I was cautioned likewise about my steward Ali. Needless to say, I rejected the idea outright and sailed through the 1971 war against Pakistan with Ali by my side. 

I am proud of officers like Gen Padmanabhan and Lt Gen Zameeruddin Shah who bring credit to our fine syncretic service traditions. But these were also early signals of how communal prejudice was already present and active in the majority community, including our Armed Forces. Alas we did not take these warnings seriously enough.

Why talk about Gujarat today? What lessons have we learned?

Having managed to locate this letter after two decades – I have been in a further dilemma – as to whether or not to bring this up again at this time, twenty years after the tragedy of Godhra and Gujarat. My wife Lalita and I have agonised over this for some time. We both concluded almost simultaneously, that silence was not an option.  We are senior citizens – who have lived through partition and its horrors. My wife has seen at first hand the brutality of the 1984 Pogrom and worked for nearly two years with the survivors of the Sikh community. We are witness to similar incidents of growing intolerance and communal violence across the country. That these are happening, with impunity, in the land of Buddha, Mahavira, and Mahatma Gandhi is disturbing to say the least. 

Therefore, our decision is, that as a former head of one of our Armed Forces, I should continue to try to speak Truth to Power – which is the one lesson my training in the Navy has taught me.

I have always believed that the Armed Forces represented the uncompromising commitment to the Constitution and its values. We have been clear that there is no way our Services can allow the influence of intolerance, religious bigotry and divisive communalism to infect our secular fighting forces. And yet we have almost helplessly watched the toxin of xenophobic politics relentlessly being injected into the life blood of our democracy.

Despite our Constitutional vision and Dharma so to speak – this is being eroded and weakened – and it is troubling to large numbers of us – possibly the silent majority. We draw attention to these personal and anecdotal events – because it is from the strength of one’s personal experiences that one builds convictions and value-based principles which are essential in our varied and complex societies.

There are a few other troubling issues which must be highlighted in the lessons learned

• The role of Media which is no longer able to call a ‘spade a spade’ – someone rightly described Gujarat-02 an “archetypal post truth event”
• Lack of accountability and liability – many fact-finding missions and investigations later – the only ‘fact’ being quoted is that the then Chief Minister was cleared and given a “clean chit”
• Time and time again, leaders of many political parties, who pour hate and invective and instigate violence, have literally managed to get away with murder! In a recent article, Cherian George, an academic, refers to this as “predatory populism” – which turns into a story of self-defence instead of pre-meditated mass murder. This often leads to “decent citizens baying for blood”.
• Again, to quote Mr Cherian George – we are facing a situation of ‘Think Global and Kill Local’ – the assaults on Human Rights and on Democracy are virtually ignored or condoned by the international community because of the imperative of geo-political and economic interests over so-called concerns about Human Rights.

So, as we approach the twentieth anniversary of the Tragedy of Gujarat – this is a call to the Conscience of all those who still believe in Humanity and Insaaniyat and who will continue to speak up and speak out on behalf of all the injustice, the deaths and violence wrought on thousands of innocents.  Let us not forget that few have been arraigned or brought to book – whereas 32 accused of bomb blasts, again in Gujarat, have been recently awarded the death penalty.

Our struggles to uphold our Constitution must continue with renewed fervour. We reaffirm our belief in Justice, Equality, Freedom, Fraternity and Secularism, as the guiding principles of our Republic. Then alone can we proudly sing:

“Saare Jahaan se Achha Hindustan Hamara” – Jai Hind – Jai Jagat!

*While Admiral L Ramdas is the Former Chief of Naval Staff, Lalita Ramdas is a peace activist and one of the most inspiring and vocal members of Indian civil society.

Related:

‘Sleeping with the Enemy?’
The world is watching us: former Admiral L Ramdas to PM Modi and Pres. Kovind

The post 20 years after Godhra – Some reflections appeared first on SabrangIndia.

We have just watched on television some excerpts from the Press Conference (without any press!) held by our Chief of Defence Staff – General Bipin Rawat, along with the serving Chiefs from the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. 

Since then, we have received several calls and messages from friends and colleagues who shared their disappointment, surprise, even shock, at the nature of the remarks made by our senior most military leader on national television. We are witnessing this at a time when the nation and our people are facing one of the most critical situations since partition. This is a matter of concern, especially for me as one of the senior most former Naval Chiefs alive today. The situation brought on by the Corona Virus pandemic has undoubtedly hit countries and peoples across the globe in various ways – economic, social, psychological, political and several dimensions too many to name. But my concern here is with how this might impact our country and our people.

Let me first of all commend the CDS and Chiefs of Staff for having taken the initiative of addressing a Press Conference on the subject of COVID 19 and the role of our Armed Forces in these circumstances. When the first notification about talking to the press popped up on our phones and computer screens, around 4:45 to 5 pm, we were full of anticipation. I was sure that our top Brass would announce some additional plans by the Armed Forces to meet the current challenge.  This would include relief, rehabilitation and assistance in handling and managing the huge exodus taking place across the country.

I had addressed two letters to the Prime Minister, copied to the RM, as also the CDS and Heads of the three Services. My first letter was dated March 27, and the second one on April 14, Ambedkar Jayanthi. I had suggested in both letters that the considerable resources of the Armed Forces might be tapped in a number of ways to deal with the unprecedented situation, brought on by the manner in which Lockdown was announced and executed. I had specifically mentioned the organizing and running of Community Kitchens and food distribution in the first letter. By the time of my second letter, the situation with respect to the farm and migrant workers and large numbers walking home for thousands of miles had grown much worse.  

My letter had flagged the fact that from all accounts, there was more than enough rice and wheat available in our reserves with the FCI, and that these should be released without further delay to feed our people. Some reports that sanction had been given by the Cabinet to diverting grains for the manufacture of ethanol and hand sanitizers was truly alarming!

Given the continuing and open targeting of some sections, like care givers, doctors and nurses etc, and our Muslim citizens, especially after the Tablighi Markaz incident, I had requested the Honorable Prime Minister that a signal from him was urgently required in order to put a halt to this deplorable and avoidable communal colour being added to a tragic health pandemic.

So, it was indeed with a deep sense of dismay and disappointment that we watched the rather prosaic address by the CDS, thanking the ‘Corona Warriors’ and Citizens for ‘being disciplined’ and keeping people safe. The speech went on to details of how Tri service  appreciation for the above would take the form of a series of events on May 3 – like fly pasts and helicopter showering of petals by the Indian Air Force ; illumination of Indian Naval ships  in harbours; and band performances in hospitals and other venues by the Indian Army.  For most of us from the Armed Forces, these events are usually conducted to celebrate victories – and in this case we are far from that day.

As has been pointed out by many, here were the top Brass of our Armed Forces who could have marshalled and provided the best facilities, equipment, PPEs and much more for the same ‘warriors’ on whom they would now be spending vast amounts of money by way of the ‘flying machines’, fuel and flowers, for organizing all of the above events outlined by the CDS! That there was not even a token reference to the grim situation being faced by lakhs of  migrant workers on May Day, who were hungry, jobless and desperate to get home , many of them choosing to walk and some of them dying along the way, is a sad indication of the insensitivity of our privileged to the trauma and travails of the vast masses who toil to keep the wheels of our system going.

My immediate concern however is to address the role that the Armed Forces of our country could and should be playing at a time of national crisis which is no less than a war scenario. Indeed, we are using military terminology of this being a ‘war’ against the Corona Virus. I have long held the view that while we in the Armed Forces maybe soldiers, sailors and airmen, we are fundamentally citizens of this country. Though our basic rights are held in suspension while in active service – the fact that we exercise our political right of universal franchise by casting our vote during elections, also emphasizes our responsibility and duty to safeguard the well-being of our people. Let us not forget that ensuring justice and equality for all as promised in our Constitution, is the primary goal and objective that we should be striving for.

I wish to briefly examine the content, the tone and the impact of the statement made by the CDS to the Press this evening – two days before the end of this phase of the Lockdown, and literally some minutes before the announcement from the Ministry of Home Affairs announcing a further two week extension to the Lockdown.

Frankly as a former serviceman, it would have gone down extremely well had each of the service chiefs used this opportunity to inform the public of the many innovative and commendable steps they have already carried out in each service with respect to ‘the war’ against COVID 19.

Furthermore, in my humble opinion, at a time when all our resources are fully stretched, we could have better utilized the money that will be spent on the events detailed above, towards assisting those most in need at this time, to reach their homes safely and thus minimize the pressures on them. Imagine the visibility and interaction with the personnel from the Armed Forces – and the building of relationships between civil and military.

Finally, let me say why I have felt impelled to pen these few words on this issue today.

I mean no disrespect to my colleagues in uniform who are in the ‘hot seat’ today. However, having ‘been there’ and ‘done that’ so to speak, I believe it is important to point out that we, as senior veterans, have a bounden responsibility to act as “conscience keepers” at times like the ones we are experiencing today. I continue to take positions on several issues which may or may not be to the liking of the regime of the day. There are several letter and articles by me available in the public domain. I am against India having gone Nuclear; I am also strongly in favour of building strong relations with all our neighbours in the region. Taking a view that is different or dissenting, does not mean that I disrespect those in high office. Rather I see this as part of my right and responsibility as a loyal citizen in a democracy, and a core element of my “Constitutional Dharma”. 

Looking back over my career of over 45 years in the Indian Navy there are several instances where I have been faced with tough decisions of a personal ethics and conscience versus political expediency. To illustrate what I mean – let me share just three examples:

• In 1984, when I was commanding the Eastern Fleet based in Vizag, my wife, who was in Delhi, got deeply involved with the relief, rehabilitation and reporting on the problems and challenges of the victims of the 1984 Pogrom against the Sikhs. She asked me if testifying before a Commission of Enquiry would adversely affect my career, which was advice she was given by several of our well-meaning friends in the Navy. I told her that she should follow her conscience and not worry about my career. 

•  In 1990, our eldest daughter asked for our blessings to marry the young man whom she had got to know while studying in the USA. The young man in question was Muslim and of Pakistani origin. We had always respected our daughters’ views and decisions – and so we said she should go ahead. I was then Commander in Chief Eastern Naval Command – again based in Vizag. I informed my Defence Minister – Dr Raja Ramanna, and my Prime Minister – Shri VP Singh. Both were unanimous in their view that who my daughter married had nothing to do with my track record in the service – and formally gave permission for us to travel to the US for her wedding in Chicago. Most people thought I was throwing away my chances of being selected for the top job. But I was clear that our daughter’s happiness was important. To our surprise and delight my name was announced as the next Naval Chief in October 1990.

• In 1992, during the build up to the Ram Mandir issue in Ayodhya, I advised both the Raksha Mantri, and others present that I feared the Babri Masjid would be demolished if we did not take prompt action. But neither the political leadership nor even the late Dr Abdul Kalam – Scientific Advisor and a wonderful colleague – were prepared to take a stand. I did my duty and gave my honest advice – but alas the rest is history.

•  I do believe that the Indian Armed Forces can and must play a role in Nation Building. In 1980, as part of my course at the NDC – National Defence College – my Individual Thesis as a Commodore, was on the Subject “THE ROLE OF THE MILITARY IN INDIA’S NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT”. It was increasingly clear to me, that if we were to indeed work to fulfill the promise of our Constitution and the Directive Principles, it would mean finding the right balance between Defence and Development. There was never any doubt in my mind that the term National Security could only be realized if we all worked to achieve Human Security. For me, Human security is the well-being of the last woman, man and child – regardless of religion, caste, class, gender, ethnicity, or community.

In conclusion:

Before assuming office as Naval Chief in November 1990, I visited Rajghat to pay my respects to the Father of the Nation, prior to the monument of the Unknown Soldier at India Gate as per the then existing tradition. The words inscribed at Gandhiji’s Samadhi have always inspired me. His mission was to wipe away every tear from every eye – and to do so he advocated that we should “Think of the poorest person you have ever seen, and ask if your next act will be of any use to him”.  It is my hope that all of us who serve our country, in or out of uniform, will always keep this principle uppermost, and have the courage to stick by his or her conscience, regardless of what the political establishment of the day might decree.

                                                                                      Jai Hind

*The author Admiral L Ramdas, PVSM, AVSM, VrC, VSM, ADC served as Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy from 1990 to 1993.

 Related:

Ex-Indian Navy Chief Ramdas says Gen Rawat wrong in making political comments

Ex-Navy Chief approaches EC over Yogi Adityanath’s “Modiji ki Sena” remark

Reclaiming the republic 

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The People of India have given sufficient publicity to the Preamble of the Constitution in the run up to and actually on, Republic Day. This must now be moved forward by achieving greater traction in a number of ways. Here are a few suggested next steps.

1. Lawmakers, members of the judiciary, and police and others involved in maintaining law and order, must also reaffirm the oath to serve all the people, as mentioned in the Preamble to the Constitution. This should apply to all parties at the centre and in the states.

2. Likewise, all Government servants and all others in the system, as heads of institutions , departments etc, both in central and state services, must also read out the Preamble , and re-affirm their commitment to tender honest advice; not be partisan to any political party; and work for the welfare of the people.

3. This is also a good time to urge all elected representatives, government servants and citizens to read the Preamble in conjunction with Article 51 A of the Constitution, which lists basic fundamental duties and reminds us of so much that still needs to be done.

4. These steps are being suggested as an appropriate and meaningful way in which the extraordinary examples of non violent protest by the students and the people across the country can be publicly recognized and acknowledged. Hopefully this will help to ensure that an effective connection between the ‘public servant’ and the ‘Public’ be built for continuing interaction and dialogue in the future.

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New Delhi: Former Navy chief Admiral L Ramdas (retired) on Monday said he will approach the Election Commission against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for referring to the Army as “Modi ji ki sena (Modi’s army)” at an election rally last week.
 
Admiral Ramdas said the armed forces do not belong to any individual, and claimed that veterans and those in service were upset with the UP Chief Minister’s comment.
 
“The armed forces do not belong to any one individual, they serve the country. Till the polls get over, the Chief Election Commissioner is the boss. I am going to approach the Election Commission in this regard,” Admiral Ramdas said.
 
At a rally in Ghaziabad on Sunday, Mr Adityanath referred to the Army as “Modi ji ki sena”, which triggered a political storm with sharp reactions from the opposition.
 
The remarks have also not gone down well with the military, with sources indicating that it was “upset”.
 
Lieutenant General HS Panag (retired) said the comments did not come as a surprise as such remarks have been made by politicians over the last five years in an attempt to link nationalism with the armed forces.
 
“Such comments lead to the politicization of the Army,” Lieutenant General Panag said. He said the Army remains apolitical.
 
On March 7, Ramdas had written a letter to the Election Commission, urging it to prevent the use of the Indian Armed Forces by political parties to influence the electorate.
 
“This was exactly the kind of development I was fearing when I wrote to you last month,” Admiral Ramdas observed and said that as one of the senior most former chiefs of the armed forces, he considered it his duty to bring it to the notice the fact that “we, the armed forces of the country, owe our allegiance only to the constitution.”
 
He expressed confidence that the Election Commission of India would take “suitable action” as soon as possible “to arrest such irresponsible actions”.
 
On March 9, the Election Commission instructed political parties to keep the country’s defence personnel out of election campaigning and not to use their photographs in advertisements. The order came following a Ministry of Defence complaint.
 
There had been instances of Bharatiya Janata Party leaders using Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s photo in election posters. Varthaman’s MiG-21 jet was downed by Pakistani F-16s over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on February 27 during a dogfight. The pilot was returned to India on March 1.
 

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In a passionately penned letter to President Ramnath Kovind, in the aftermath of the Pulwama massacre, Admiral Ramdas, former chief of the Indian Navy has urged restraint and sagacity in dealing with the aftermath.  Recognising that there is anger after the loss of over ‘forty precious lives’ of the jawans,  he has deplored the attacks on innocent Kashmiris all over India. In the strongest terms he has condemned the war hysteria being whipped up by television channels especially the ‘war hysteria’ against Kashmiris our own people.
 
Appealing to the Indian President as Head of the Nation and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, he has stated in no uncertain terms that we cannot afford a war. ” It is imperative that the situation should not be allowed to escalate into greater hostilities which it might not always be possible to contain. As the Supreme Commander, you must caution our own leaders about the very real dangers of the present standoff escalating into a war situation – and quickly going beyond a conventional engagement – given that both India and Pakistan are two nuclear armed countries.”
 
The entire test of the letter may be read here. It was despatched to the Rashtrapati Bhavan four days ago and is being made public now. Two days ago, at a meeting held by Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) and Indian Muslims for Secular democracy (IMSD) in Mumbai Admiral Ramdas had, similarly called for both justice and peace.
 
Dear Shri Kovind ji,
This is Admiral Ramdas –‐ former Chief of the Naval Staff, writing to you yet again – this time on the tragic deaths of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Jawans in the IED attack on their
convoy in Pulwama on Feb 14th 2019 and subsequent events. Over forty precious lives, belonging to the CRPF were lost in the service of the Nation on February 14, 2019. This was indeed a despicable act, and a tragic event, and those guilty must be punished.

While the event has understandably evoked strong and angry reactions from every corner of the country and all sections of the people, it is also clear that such an event should never have happened on such an important strategic highway, especially in view of some reports that speak of there having been some intelligence reports to this effect in possession of the police and Intelligence agencies.

It is reported that this attack was planned and executed by the Jaish e Mohammed [JEM].There are questions as to how and why a lone vehicle packed with RDX was able to penetrate a convoy and wreak such havoc, these and many more questions will no doubt be the subject of internal inquiries both by the CRPF and other agencies of the State. As a former head of the Navy and Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, and also someone who, after retirement in 1993 has devoted most of his time in the pursuit of peace with Pakistan by pushing for a people to people dialogue, my concerns, are listed below.
 
1. We must resolve the Kashmir problem through dialogue which must involve all three partners to the dispute – namely, the people of J&K, India and Pakistan. This is a position I have advocated for several decades now – after having studied the intractable nature of what is popularly called the K word, but which has continued to extract a heavy toll on both countries and above all on the suffering of the unfortunate people of Jammu and Kashmir.
 
We continue to proclaim that they are an integral part of India. If indeed that is so, then they must be treated as such, as equal citizens –‐ be they in Jammu, the Valley or in Ladakh . Had we done that we would have been less likely to see the levels of alienation, especially of young people.
 
2. If both countries are willing to engage each other on the Kartarpora corridor – then why not on the LOC, and other core concerns around Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The sooner we make it known that we are open to dialogue with all stakeholders and begin this process in all seriousness and sincerity, the more likely we are to make some headway with the people in J&K.
 
3. If a young Adil can blow himself up in the cause of freedom, Aazadi or the long promised autonomy for Kashmir, it is the strongest indicator yet of the levels of anger and alienation that the youth of the state are experiencing today. No amount of force as part of the avowedly “muscular” Kashmir policy can quell this. We must act now and sit across the table and have an honest dialogue with all parties concerned. It might already be too late.
 
4. The most serious fallout of this attack on our jawans in Awantipora has been the unprecedented outbreak of harassment, mob violence, attacks, insults and abuse levelled at many Kashmiris across the country. Soon this might spill over to Muslims across India. We CANNOT allow this to continue and spread with dire consequences which are hard to assess.
 
5. The only solution is political and not military. And a political solution must involve a genuine and continuous dialogue with the people of Kashmir – including dissidents and separatists; the Govt of Pakistan and the Govt of India.
 
WHAT CAN BE DONE – IMMEDIATELY
 In your capacity as the Head of State and our Supreme Commander, and the oath you have taken to uphold the Constitution, I urge you to take steps as outlined below, which is entirely within your command, and a part of your duty and responsibility:–‐
 
a. It is imperative that the situation should not be allowed to escalate into greater hostilities which it might not always be possible to contain. As the Supreme Commander, you must caution our own leaders about the very real dangers of the present standoff escalating into a war situation – and quickly going beyond a conventional engagement – given that both India and Pakistan are two nuclear armed countries.
 
b. The decisions on next steps must be taken with due diligence, and weighing all the options and their implications . We cannot allow the hysterical media anchors and social media anger to influence or pressurise decisions at the highest level. The atmosphere at present is by no means conducive to decisions being taken in a calm and considered manner – with emotions and reactions being inflamed and incited in an often deliberate and irresponsible manner.
 
c. Let India take the high moral ground by declaring an unconditional Hold Fire – pending detailed enquiries into the attack on the convoy in Pulwama . This way we will ensure that the facts are investigated, and the truth behind the attack be established without delay. I am sure that this will have a salutary effect and ensure seamless actions further ahead.
 
d. We must immediately put a halt to the terrible media war being waged on innocent Kashmiris who are going about their business quietly in towns and cities across the country . This message must come from the highest level – and the Honorable Prime Minister must be advised that he can halt this current backlash in minutes if he so chooses, by issuing stern and clear warnings against any violence and threats and harassment against citizens – be they Kashmiri or indeed Muslim citizens. , through every channel, cadre and social media. To avoid aggravating the present situation of fear and insecurity and preventing further bloodshed, action on this must be taken with utmost speed.
 
e. Enable an impartial and independent Judicial Enquiry . This group should comprise serving judges of the Supreme court.
 
The Nation as a whole seems to be going through a lot of uncertainties especially about the threats of retaliation. Such posturing, especially between two nuclear armed states, is highly risky. This time around we may not be able to contain this to the conventional type of warfare. The situation is even more delicate given the impending elections, communal disturbances and fears of breakdown of law and order.
 
We must not allow any of the above to happen. We have a lot of strategic and human interests in (J&K) and the country as a whole and we must protect both these. This can only happen by winning the hearts and minds of the people , especially of Jammu & Kashmir. Let us remember that Military Force can never erase an “IDEA”. We need to do some serious reflection of our own policies and conduct these past 70 years.

With regards
Yours sincerely
L.Ramdas
P.S. Admiral Ramdas held his position with the forces with distinction.  He has been awarded the prestigious PVSM, AVSM, VrC, VSM Medals of Honour for Bravery besides also being a Magsaysay Awardee for Peace
 

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In this letter, Admiral Ramdas, who is also recipient of the Magsaysay Award for Peace stresses how crucial this investigation is for the health of any democracy.
 
Text of letter:
All Democracies exist and survive on three main pillars – namely the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary. Freedom from British rule, was won after a prolonged struggle and The Indian Constitution was evolved after nearly two and a half years of debate in the Constituent Assembly, and passed on November 26, 1949 and India became a Republic on January 26, 1950. Our Constitution became effective. This one and only holy book which matters, subscribes to the above concept of our Democracy, wherein all our citizens are considered to be equal in the eyes of the law.
 
This is all the more important when a CBI judge, Justice Loya, specially appointed by the CJI of the Mumbai High Court to investigate the murder of Sohrabbudin , dies under mysterious circumstances  while on a visit to Nagpur. The silence of the two judges who apparently persuaded the late Judge Loya to travel to Nagpur, and accompanied him, is disturbing to say the least. The inaction of the judiciary about this sequence of events thus far is indeed surprising. This is all the more puzzling in the context of the recent revelations by family members of the late Justice Loya, who have raised certain questions, apprehending foul play in the circumstances leading to his sudden death.
 
A judicial probe at this point, at least to respond to the queries raised by the family, and to uphold the image of the judiciary in the eyes of the people of India, is absolutely necessary.     
 
As a former Chief of the Indian Navy, I feel strongly that it is critically important to clear any doubts about this entire incident. Therefore in the larger interests of the nation and its people, and above all in upholding the Constitution of India and  the image of our entire legal system, a high level judicial enquiry be initiated immediately.
 
It is to be hoped that serious note will be taken of this communication.
 
 

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My Dear Prime Minister,

I am constrained to write to you, because of the recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir, the attack on our air station in Pathankot , and now in Uri, where we have lost precious lives not to mention the many injured.

The lack of response by India to the latest attack, has clearly been due in large measure, to the sobering effect of nuclear weapons possessed by both sides. India, by conducting the nuclear tests in 1998, was largely responsible for escalating the nuclear arms race in the region. It appears that this might have left us with little choice but to step back after the Uri attack. Needless to say my own views against nuclear weapons are well known, and I do strongly believe that by overtly announcing our nuclear weapons capability we have lost the conventional advantage over Pakistan that we had for all these years.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, national security needs to be discussed in some detail with not only the Chief of the Army Staff , the National Security Adviser and the members of the CCSA (Cabinet Committee on Security Affairs,) but equally importantly, also with the heads of the Navy and the Air Force. Should we decide to go to war, or should the Pakistanis chose to escalate the levels, preparatory work, advice and the engagement of all the three service Chiefs are essential. We should be prepared for all contingencies and this is ultimately a task for the Military leadership.

However, to revert to the overall question of Indo-­‐Pak relations, one of the major causes of the continuing hostility between Pakistan and India, has been the inability to resolve the Kashmir issue. Over the years successive Indian governments since 1948 have failed to find a solution for Kashmir. Recent events, including the violence and unrest in the valley, has further reinforced what many have been saying, that there can be no military solution to the Kashmir problem. Peace can only be restored through a dialogue leading to a political solution.

Till now unfortunately we appear to have resorted to inflexible, half baked and knee jerk reactions -­‐ as was evident in the approach adopted by the recent visit of the all party delegation of members of Parliament. It is increasingly clear that in order to regain the trust of the people of Kashmir, India needs to be imaginative and demonstrate our willingness to find a political solution which will be acceptable to all parties concerned.

This would mean revisiting the promises made at the time of the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India. Further, this could also mean a flexible response towards restoring autonomy as promised. To achieve this we need to be open to discuss matters with all the groups in Kashmir. We are all aware of the resolution passed by the J&K assembly in 2004 demanding autonomy, but it fell on deaf ears, since the Congress Government of the day did nothing to take this matter forward . You will agree with me sir that restoring the trust deficit is crucial for peace in South Asia.

By way of my credentials in writing to you on this matter, in addition to having headed the Indian Navy, and seen active service in the 1971 Bangla Desh war, I have been giving much serious thought to the overall issues concerning the development, and security of our region, even whilst in service. Contrary to a popularly held view among many of our senior service and other officials, three and half wars with Pakistan have shown me that wars and military actions have not found us the answers to the intractable problems of our region.

This is what has prompted my active engagement in seeking solutions which would reduce hostility, contribute to better neighbourhood management, and in the long run and help the people of our region to lead a better quality of life.

Whilst heading the service in 1992, we in the Indian Navy organized a seminar entitled “Challenges and Opportunities in the Indian Ocean in the 21st Century”, designed to bring together the littoral seafaring nations of the region in a conversation about maritime heritage and joint efforts to combat threats. Participants unanimously supported the suggestion I made that we must change the Indian Ocean from an area of conflict to one of cooperation. I had also advocated setting up of an Indian Ocean Panchayat , which would resolve conflicts between states peacefully. Recent initiatives taken by your Government and the Indian Navy, have built on this.

In the post retirement years, my efforts to explore several independent civil society initiatives for peace, democracy and greater people to people contact, has led to my engagement with the PIPFPD (Pakistan India Peoples Forum for Peace and Democracy), and other initiatives on Nuclear Disarmament. In 2004 these efforts were recognized by the award of the Magsaysay Award for Peace, jointly to myself and my colleague Mr I A Rehman from Pakistan .

All our efforts however finally end in a kind of deadlock around the unresolved and complex question of Kashmir. I had often shared this with your distinguished predecessor Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and his NSA, the late Shri Brajesh Misra, both of whom were open to the idea of pursuing the path of dialogue whilst remaining tough diplomatically.

To regain trust of the people in Kashmir requires sincere, genuine and long term solutions which will also make the people, especially the youth , feel that they are a valued part of our society. Meeting violence with more violence has never solved issues. If I might venture to suggest – we should also initiate an open discussion regarding a gradual withdrawal of military presence in some key areas – which could also include a discussion on AFSPA(Armed Forces Special Powers Act).

I am sure that you as Prime Minister will seriously consider some of these suggestions, emanating as they do from one of the senior most former Service Chiefs. I would also like to commend you for not being influenced by those who impulsively and irresponsibly have advocated using the nuclear option – this, in my view, would be a catastrophic path to follow for many good reasons.

In conclusion I would like to say that I have been part of several Track II and other peace initiatives – including visiting both Kashmir and Pakistan over the years. Regardless of the calibrated response we must make to the impunity of the latest attacks on Uri, we need to keep the doors open for dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, as also with Pakistan. Although I am 83 years old, I am still active, and quite ready to volunteer for any such initiative.

With regards
Yours sincerely
Admiral L. Ramdas

Admiral L Ramdas is former Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy
 

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