Congress spokesperson says 'drunk Army uncles' should avoid media, politics; veterans hit back

IANS | September 7, 2026 11:01 AM

New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) Several military veterans on Monday strongly criticised Congress spokesperson Reetam Singh over his remarks targeting retired Indian Army officers, suggesting that their participation in television debates and politics, along with access to subsidised Defence canteens, could pose a risk to civilian control and potentially lead to situations similar to those witnessed in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other parts of Southeast Asia.

From Gun to Gram Sabha: What real rehabilitation looks like

Bhaavna Arora | September 6, 2026 10:48 PM

New Delhi, Sep 6 (IANS) For decades, the story of Left-Wing Extremism was written through ambushes, landmines, armed squads and funerals. Today, in parts of Maharashtra's Gadchiroli, another story is being written. Its images are quieter -- a former Maoist discussing Gram Sabha rights, surrendered cadres rebuilding their homes, young people entering classrooms and workplaces, and men and women once trained for conflict learning to live without fear.