LOK SABHA
A few complaints
have been received regarding irregularities in Army recruitments
by Zonal Recruiting Offices/Branch Recruiting Offices, cutting
across State-borders. A large percentage of these complaints are
anonymous/pseudonymous. Nevertheless, all complaints are investigated
due action is taken against persons found guilty. In a few cases
specific complaints against the officials have also been received
which have been duly investigated and punishment commensurate
with the offence awarded.
Ninety-two such
cases were reported in 1998, eighty-two in 1999 one hundred and
two in 2000, one hundred last year and seventy this year (upto
Sep 2002). Punishments were awarded in six such cases in 1998,
in four cases in 1999, in five cases in 2000, in two cases last
year and in three cases this year (upto Sep 2002). The number
of individuals awarded punishment in such cases was eight in 1998,
four in 1999, five in 2000, two last year and seven this year
(upto Sep 2002).
As per the guidelines
issued for recruitment, all recruitment for the Army is done through
the open rally system. These rallies are conducted by members
pooled from different Branch Recruiting Offices to ensure impartiality.
The recruitment process consists of written examination and physical
and medical tests. The entire process takes place in full view
of the public. The system has been made open, transparent, fair
and candidate friendly.
This information
was given by the Defence Minister Shri George Fernandes in a written
reply to Shri Kodi Kunnil Suresh and others in Lok Sabha today.