It needs to re-stated that military pressure alone does not resolve internal security or law and order problems, unless there is good governance. Indeed, political leaders must take note of public grievances and discuss them with the concerned authorities, particularly when they happen to be part of the ruling coalition. However, if such demands are likely to compromise national security, they must also correct public impressions and not exploit them for political reasons.

Public accountability is indeed a pre-requisite for good governance. But accountability on sensitive issues like national security needs to be sought within the framework of constitutional establishments and not through political jingoism.

The writer, a former chief of army staff, is president, ORF Institute of Security Studies, New Delhi