New Delhi: Major Leetul Gogoi, who stirred a controversy after he tied a man to a military vehicle as a cover against stone pelters, today sought to defend his action, saying that he did nothing wrong and managed to save several lives without firing a bullet or beating anyone.
''I am not afraid. I have not done anything wrong. It is not wrong for me, my organisation of my country,'' Major Gogoi told a news channel.
''I have saved so many lives, myself and civilians. I have not fired a bullet, not beaten anyone. There was no collateral damage. From my point of view, I have not violated anything,'' Major Gogoi told the channel.
Asserting that his intentions in taking the action were right, Major Gogoi said, ''We are here to help the people. The Army is here for the common people against those with weapons and those who fight against the Nation. ''My message to all my juniors is, if your intentions are right, nothing will happen to you. Our hierarchy is with you in this crucial time. Be positive, work hard and things will be ok,'' Major Gogoi said, adding that things were tough for him after the controversy arose.
''When the Video went viral, it was tough on me. However, it was not a pre-planned decision,'' he said. Defending his action, he said, ''they should understand. What would have happened, if I had fired. ''I am not bothered about Farooq Abdullah's comment.
He may feel humiliated. But what would they (Farooq and others) would have done in my place.'' Major Gogoi has come under criticism after a video went viral, showing a man tied to the Army vehicle during polling in the Srinagar Lok Sabha by-election on April 9. The video had triggered a public outcry, which led to the Army to institute a probe.
While the Major had been criticised for his action from various quarters, he had received endorsement from many quarters too, as he was seen as doing his best under the difficult circumstances to save the life of Army officers. He was honoured with the Army Chief's 'Commendation Card' for his 'sustained efforts' in counter-insurgency operations.
The recognition is for his sustained distinguished service till now in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir, Army sources said. However, a Court of Inquiry regarding the April 9 human shield incident is under finalisation. (UNI)