Observing that the Army was an "apolitical" organisation, Army Chief General V K Singh today said the force was "studying" the statement made by a Major General on Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.

"Army is absolutely apolitical. I don't know what statement has been made. We are studying it as to what he has said. I can only say one thing that there is no politicisation in the Army," he told reporters here.

Division Commander Major General I S Singha had said at a recent function in Ahmedabad that "Chief Minister Modi has all the qualities of a successful Army commander. His programmes are aimed at development of both the state and the nation." Modi was present at the function.

On whether the Maj Gen's statement was appropriate, the Army chief said, "I don't know in what context and how he has said anything. Just be rest assured that there is no politicisation in the Army."

Defence Minister A K Antony also described the armed forces as "apolitical" but said he was yet to see a report about the officer's statement.

"I am yet to get a report about what happened there. So cannot comment on the basis of media report. One good tradition of the armed forces-compared to many others- is apolitical," he said.

"That tradition I am sure our armed forces will continue. They are apolitical and their task is to protect the national security. They have to be vigilant round-the-clock and that they are doing," the Defence Minister said.