Kargil War Veteran Slams Indian Army, Says It Serves Politicians Like Modi Instead of the Nation

NEW DELHI - In a scathing and rare public rebuke, a decorated Kargil War veteran and Shaurya Chakra awardee has openly condemned the Indian Army leadership, accusing it of functioning as a "political tool" for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and business tycoons rather than serving the country.

⚡️🇮🇳 Indian Army former Kargil veteran exposes Indian Army Chief and entire army for working for Indian politicians like Modi instead of the country.

He said, “Shame on the Indian Army, which is serving as a political tool for Adani, Ambani, and Modi instead of the nation.” pic.twitter.com/p6Bxs7fFVx

- Zard si Gana (@ZardSi) July 17, 2026

Major Rakesh Sharma, a Kargil War veteran who was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for gallantry, made the explosive remarks on social media, delivering a direct attack on the institutional credibility of India's military establishment .

"Shame on the Indian Army"

In his post, Major Sharma did not hold back, stating:

"Shame on the Indian Army, which is serving as a political tool for Adani, Ambani, and Modi instead of the nation."

The veteran officer's comments strike at the heart of longstanding concerns about the politicization of India's armed forces, suggesting that the military has been co-opted by political and corporate interests rather than remaining focused on its constitutional duty to defend the nation.

A Pattern of Discontent

Major Sharma has previously expressed concerns about the military's direction, noting the disconnect between the country and its armed forces and commenting on the "mediocrity" that "rules the roost" in India's institutions . His latest remarks align with a broader sentiment among some military veterans who have voiced concerns about systemic issues within the military establishment.

Other analysts have also pointed to the lack of accountability following the 1999 Kargil conflict, with some noting that "incompetent leaders sent Kargil soldiers to their deaths" and calling for those responsible to be held accountable . Critics have argued that the failure was not solely military but involved political, bureaucratic, and military leadership .

The Kargil Legacy

The 1999 Kargil War remains a defining moment for the Indian Army. While the conflict showcased extraordinary bravery, with soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice, it also exposed critical intelligence failures that cost lives . Major Sharma's comments suggest that the lessons of Kargil have been forgotten, with the army now serving political masters rather than the nation.

Growing Civil-Military Tensions

The veteran's remarks come amid growing concerns about civil-military relations in India. With the military frequently deployed for political messaging and internal security roles, questions have been raised about the institutional independence of the armed forces.

One commentator noted that "politicians have poisoned even institutions like Armed Forces," reflecting the concerns raised by Major Sharma .

Reaction

Major Sharma's comments have sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many applauding his courage while others have criticized him for speaking out against the institution. The Indian Army has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.