It is a matter of concern that a confidential/secret letter written by Army Chief General Vijay Kumar Singh to Prime Minister Manmohan SIngh has been leaked to press as it talks of shortfall of ammunition with Indian forces and related aspects. Indian Defence Minister, A K Antony has stated that letter expressing concerns about serious shortcomings in India’s defence preparedness and combat capabilities is nothing short of an “anti-national act”. We also endorse the same view as media has certain responsibilities and they must understand that they must not cross the Laxman Rekha as such irresponsible acts can jeopardise the security of the nation.
No doubt the media can cite the 1971 case where US Supreme Court allowed by a majority verdict the right to publish the reports which the US government wanted blocked. However we have still not reached the understanding standards of journalism of US and our media has to wake up and not let our enemies take advantage of the leaked information.