The arrogance of seniority! (2).

........contd.

Although display of star plates and flags on private cars is forbidden, many officers feel insecure without their use and openly flout the orders. There are many commanders who insist that the mules that they ride in mountainous terrain must be duly embellished with stars and flags- a ridiculous sight indeed. Similarly, it was a shocking sight to see a Chief flying his flag and displaying four stars on his golf cart in New Delhi.

Recently, a photograph was circulated on the internet that showed caddies wearing jackets with stars prominently displayed on their backs to indicate ranks of the players they were assisting. Can there be a more ludicrous demonstration of disgraceful obsession with ranks?

Another absurd practice that has gained currency in the recent past is to present golf caps and tee-shirts to all participants with their ranks duly indicated through embossed/embroidered stars. It is a comical sight to see officers playing golf with their ranks duly advertised. It appears that senior officers are unable to swing their clubs unless adequately supported by the trappings of their ranks.

In another case, a garden umbrella at a divisional tennis court had two stars prominently displayed on it to indicate that it was exclusively for the Divisional Commander and his wife. As human ingenuity has no limits, there are numerous such examples wherein display of rank has been carried to preposterous extent.

Many senior officers complain that they never demand such displays and that some over-enthusiastic juniors take initiative of their own accord. This explanation holds no water at all. Unless the junior officers are convinced that their initiative would fetch them a pat, they would never take the risk. Additionally, senior commanders can always order stoppage of such practices if they so desire. The fact is that they relish such treatment as it boosts their ego, gives them a 'kick' and makes them special.

Finally

Informal interaction between officers of different ranks should always be governed by the dictum that 'a good senior does not flaunt his seniority all the time while a good junior does not forget his juniority at any time'. That should be the basis of healthy social equilibrium.

It must never be forgotten that the officers who fail to make to higher ranks are not competent. It is just that the steep pyramid-like structure provides limited promotional avenues. Many brilliant officers suffer due to the shortage of vacancies and retire as Colonels. Supersession impacts their psyche and they show signs of social withdrawal. Instead of reassuring them, social discrimination adds to their discomfort through shameless display of inequities. Worse, 'social apartheid' is widening the gulf between the top brass and the others.

Senior commanders would do well to remember that humility is the hall mark of a good leader and a meta-virtue. A self-effacing demeanour indicates maturity and not meekness or timidity. Humility is all about maintaining one's pride about one's worth and achievements but without arrogance. It is an old saying that 'those who achieve the most flaunt the least'.

.......concluded.

- Author unknown

My take

I'd observed this trend even in 2013, as seniors kept themselves away from their juniors during functions, celebrations and dinners. There were separate counters for different groups based on seniority. Such a separation was necessitated because of the following reasons - and this is my opinion, on the basis of my observations:-

 (a) Seniors were weary of interacting with their juniors owing to lack of confidence in themselves

       or was it because of the 'couldn't care less' syndrome - what does one achieve from interacting

       with the juniors?

 (b) The guys 'looking up' found it easier to put across their thoughts to the top brass by reducing the             number of people to interact hoping that they would gain advantage in the proverbial rat race.

 (c) The basic idea was to eliminate healthy competition.

 

Tailpiece.

Got up at 6, the chores and was ready for Sajish, to give me my monthly haircut at a half past 7. The usual chores after that and was ready by 10.

Hameed took us to the Mango Bakery, the fruit shop at the west nada and to the National Supermarket. Purchases were made and we returned by lunch time.

A quiet evening thereafter.