Gen Bipin Rawat deflects questions on Kartarpur

HYDERABAD: Chief of Army Staff, Bipin Rawat declined to give any direct reaction when asked about Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh’s statement on Friday that Pakistan has an ulterior motive in opening the Kartarpur corridor. The opening of the corridor has already created some controversy in political circles.
When reporters asked for Rawat’s reaction as he arrived in the city to preside as the chief guest at the Combined Graduation Parade in Dundigal, the general posed a counter question: “Let’s ask what you actually think.I believe that whenever media comes up with questions, they prepare the background work. I am not going to comment on anything and my views will apear at a suitable time and place.’’ As the journalists continued peppering him with questions and asked whether he shared Amarinder Singh’s view, Rawat said, “Why should I have a similar view? I have my independent view.’’ The Army chief then left the sidelines of the parade ground, away from the media.
Before this, on increasing the strength of women in the Indian Army, Rawat pointed out that the Army wants to increase the intake of women in various ranks especially cyber specialists, interpreters and legal workers. “I am looking for women jawan in military police,’’ the general said.
During the passing out parade, earlier, the chief guest of the event advised cadets upon the need to be aware of various situations like rapidly changing geo-political scenario and constantly strive to keep themselves fighting fit.
At the parade, cadets showed air stunts using Sarang, a helicopter, and two aircrafts, Suryakiran and PC7, which brought out an impressed smile from Rawat.