- We, the citizens of India, are beyond surprises whenever multi-billion-dollar defence purchases and the accompanying scams invariably make headlines accompanied by the unbearable cacophony of political parties indulging in a cringe-worthy slugfest against the opposition. The mudslinging, name-calling, besmirching, and allegations will reach a crescendo grabbing the limelight for obvious reasons. No less than popular governments in the past have been shown the door during the elections because of the seriousness of these allegations. Compromising the nation’s sovereignty is a big no, you see.
PC: PIT
- Of course, the majority of us have given up expecting anything but widespread allegations of corruption, kickbacks, and inducements getting tagged along with anything related to crucial military hardware acquisitions. No wonder, cynicism is widely prevalent amongst us even if allegations eventually turn out to be untrue. The multi-role Rafael fighter jet deal from France is the latest defence acquisition that refuses to settle down despite the Supreme Court ruling on the matter clearing all allegations. Sporadic news on the deal keeps hitting headlines and the latest information on the matter has emanated from a French news portal Mediapart’s revelations of alleged payoffs to a middleman by Dassault Aviation.
- This purported dealing happened between 2007 and 2012 setting off a predictable series of political charges and countercharges. The majority of us will be feeling that it’s time India graduates out of this very third world politicking over defence acquisitions from foreign manufacturers. As such, why not consider initiating the following measures to preempt the damages. Firstly, the perception surrounding these purchases should be completely eradicated by getting rid of the opaque manner of processes involved. As is known, the armed forces decide what suits them best by inviting bids from multi-vendors, undergoing various trials for suitability, and proceeding ahead with budget permitting.
PC: Amarjit S.
- Secondly, the process of acquisition must be undertaken by a specially tasked unit. It is noteworthy to mention here that the unit should draw talent from bureaucracy and armed forces as well as make recruitment laterally from the private sector too. For example, carefully vetted specialists from law and finance would make an impactful presence. Of course, this body should be reporting to the political executive but must be operating separately from armed forces and the bureaucracy. An unambiguous mandate to the unit should be to uphold fast and clean acquisition without being encumbered by burdensome red tapes.
- Thirdly, there must be true parliamentary oversight in the form of a select committee of MPs from all parties with the power to ask questions of the specialized body doing the deal. Mind you, the CAG’s reports are valuable too. Fourthly, and most importantly, once a deal is through, all relevant papers, minus security-sensitive details but including all financial details, must be placed in full parliament. Thus, the above mechanism should make India’s defence purchases quick, efficient, and bereft of controversies. Since our domestic defence manufacturing ability is limited, foreign acquisitions will remain relevant for a long time. An aspiring nation should at least have in place a transparent and effective mechanism to serve our external security apparatus without blemishes to the extent possible.
