There was protocol violation

It is to be asserted that there was protocol violation in receiving India’s Honorable Defence Minister A K Antony on Kottayam on 27 September 2008. The minister who is saluted by all the three military chiefs in India is humiliated by deputing only an Assistant Sub-Inspector for receiving him. The Collector and other top district officials were busy ignoring Antony and hence they are punishable under law for the sheer negligence. Perhaps the Defence Minister, because of his nature, may not react to this incident; nevertheless, it is an eye-opener to all those ruling politicians in the state. If not plucked in the bud they will also meet with the same misfortune in future. Political rivalry should not reflect in official functions. The purpose of inviting the Defence Minister for a function was to enable him to respond to the feelings and sentiments of the delegates and in that respect the state government has shown insolence to the NCC and the entire Indian Military.

In fact there was inadequacy in observing protocol while extending the invitation to the Defence Minister. A military probe can also be initiated in the issue.

K A Solaman