A few years back, when the phenomenon of social media had just about infiltrated the hallowed precincts of the cantonments and barracks of the Indian Armed Forces, came tumbling an image of militaristic traditions, restraints and sobriety. A distinguished third-generation soldier and then Chief of Army Staff, General DS Suhag, had just finished his address and it was followed by claps ~ he immediately returned to the podium to correct and insist on a longstanding tradition. The wise General noted, “After I finish my address please do not clap. Hereafter, we will maintain the decorum of not clapping in uniform.” This was not a social quirk, but one tenet conforming to “Officer Like Qualities” (OLQ’s) that befit a professional soldier.

The “Uniform” mandates certain composure, behavioural restraints, and adherences to approved protocols, and breaking away from these is considered unbecoming. Reactions like saluting, approved salutations, or even standing at attention (or at ease) is subject to the moment. Free expression of emotion that breaks away from such regimented and approved ways is frowned upon. But this disciplined conduct is not about stifling an individual but ensuring the maximum output out of the act of synchronization (physically and behaviorally). Synchronization of movement (along with a larger team) is institutionalised into the consciousness of a soldier, starting from the “Drill Square” to “Quarter Guards”, firing ranges, to even prescribed do’s and don’ts in an Army Mess.

Advertisement

There is even a defined way of rousing the morale of troops in the forward areas by desisting from using political/partisan goads, or invoking divisive stances ~ instead, the triggering of respective war cries of the battalion, arm, or service, is used. This is a necessary culture for maintaining the apolitical, non-partisan, and professional normalcy within ranks. By its very nature, the act of clapping is individualistic, as the assumption is that any content could be liked or........

© The Statesman