Mon Jan 13 16:28:47 UTC 2025: ## Army Chief Defends Women Officers Amidst Internal Concerns

**NEW DELHI** – The Indian Army is pushing for a significant increase in the number of women officers, despite an internal letter raising concerns about their performance in command roles. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated Monday that women officers are “exceedingly well” and that the army aims for a twelvefold increase in their induction by 2032.

This statement comes in response to a leaked five-page letter from Lt Gen Rajeev Puri, a Corps Commander, to his superior, detailing issues he perceived in units commanded by women officers. The letter, which is now the subject of a court of inquiry, cited concerns including a lack of tact, misplaced sense of entitlement, and a lack of empathy among some female commanders.

Gen Dwivedi acknowledged the letter, calling it a “perception” and an internal communication, while emphasizing that the Army’s deployment of women officers follows a Supreme Court order. He highlighted the success of women officers currently serving, including those attending the Staff College and serving as pilots. He described the ideal female officer as someone strong and capable (“Kaali mata ka roop”), while also stressing the importance of a gender-neutral approach.

Currently, several women officers are commanding units in various locations, including forward positions. The Army Chief’s comments suggest a determination to proceed with expanding the role of women in the military, despite the internal criticism highlighted in Lt Gen Puri’s letter.

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