Rations scam: Army pulls up media

New Delhi, July 19 (UNI) The Defence Ministry today said the media had speculated on the likely punishment in the Army rations scam, and clarified that legal action would be taken on the merits of the evidence available.

According to some media reports, the Army was expected to launch Court Martial proceedings against Lt Gen S K Sahni, while administrative action was expected against Maj Gen S Dahiya after the recording of summary of evidence in the case.

In a statement here, the Defence Ministry said several media reports had differently interpreted/ reported the disciplinary aspects of the case and in some cases even speculated on the likely punishment.

It said a Court of Inquiry was ordered by GOC-in C Western Command into the alleged irregularities in Army Service Corps (ASC) purchases and related issues.

''All personnel whose character and military reputation came into question during investigations were given due opportunity to vindicate their position in terms of relevant Army rules.

''The Court of Inquiry has since submitted its report, and GOC-in-C Western Command, the competent authority in the case, has ordered initiation of disciplinary proceedings against personnel found blameworthy by the Court of Inquiry.

''Now the legal course of recording the summary of evidence will follow and the further course of legal action will be taken against the individuals concerned based on merits of the evidence,'' it said.

UNI YJ YA HT2018