Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid, a 1986 batch IPS officer, on Thursday expressed his strong support for Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan’s recent remarks that the Indian Air Force (IAF) could have played a decisive role in blunting China’s offensive during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
Speaking to news agency IANS, SP Vaid said, “I undoubtedly support his statement. Historians and military officers alike have claimed that if the then Prime Minister had employed the Indian Air Force effectively, China could have been stopped. Unfortunately, at that time, we were very young and lacked detailed information, but the outcome today is clear — China occupies our borders.”
Reflecting on Historical Context: “Hindi-Chinese Bhai-Bhai” and Nehru’s Global Ambitions
SP Vaid pointed out the political climate of the era, noting that India’s then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s focus on promoting peace and his global image might have contributed to India’s military disadvantages in 1962.
“At that time, we were chanting the slogan ‘Hindi-Chinese Bhai-Bhai’ while China did not believe in such slogans,” Vaid said. “Nehru was striving to become a global statesman, much like how US President Donald Trump attempts to build his global image today. This diplomatic approach, however, cost India dearly as China occupied territories including Aksai Chin. China continues to have its eyes on Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, which is a serious concern for the country.”
Read also: Forward Policy in 1962 Was Flawed, Air Power Was Missed Opportunity: CDS Gen Chauhan
Congratulating CDS Chauhan’s Tenure Extension
SP Vaid congratulated the government on extending the tenure of General Anil Chauhan as the Chief of Defence Staff, calling it a positive and strategic move.
“I congratulate Anil Chauhan for the extension of his tenure. Undoubtedly, all countrymen will be happy with this decision as it strengthens our strategic capabilities,” he stated.
Controversial Views on Pakistan Cricket Team and Sports Diplomacy
In a sharp and controversial statement, SP Vaid criticized the Pakistani cricket team, describing them as having a “jihadi mentality.”
“Playing cricket seems to be a secondary profession for Pakistani players. Their primary focus is religious proselytization, specifically through Tablighi Jamaat, encouraging conversions. A Pakistani player once even expressed a desire to kill Sachin Tendulkar,” Vaid claimed.
He added, “Do these players come to play cricket or to wage jihad? Cricket interactions with Pakistan should be avoided. When one of their players offers namaz on the field, it becomes a major issue for them. I fail to understand this mentality.”
Read also: Operation Sindoor Hero Gen Anil Chauhan Gets CDS Tenure Extended Till May 2026
