The controversy surrounding the Agnipath scheme, designed for the short-term induction of soldiers, has escalated with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi accusing Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of misleading Parliament regarding compensation for Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s family. This issue has sparked a heated debate over the treatment and support provided to Agniveers, adding fuel to the ongoing political discourse surrounding military policies and benefits.
Rahul Gandhi released a video purportedly showing the father of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who claimed that the family had not received adequate compensation from the Centre following Ajay Kumar’s death in a landmine explosion in Jammu & Kashmir. Gandhi’s video and statements directly challenged Rajnath Singh’s assertions in Parliament regarding financial assistance to martyred Agniveers. He demanded an apology from Singh, accusing him of falsifying information and misleading the nation and Parliament. In response, the Indian Army swiftly addressed the controversy on social media, clarifying that a substantial amount of compensation, totaling ₹98.39 lakhs, had already been disbursed to Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s next of kin. They further detailed that additional ex-gratia payments and benefits, amounting to approximately ₹67 lakhs, were pending final settlement after due police verification. The total compensation was expected to reach around ₹1.65 crore, as per provisions under the Agniveer Scheme. The Agnipath scheme, which has become a focal point of contention, was vigorously debated in Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior ministers accused the Congress of spreading misinformation about the scheme, while Gandhi reiterated concerns that Agniveers were not receiving the recognition and benefits they deserved under the program.
The dispute over the Agnipath scheme underscores broader tensions within Indian politics regarding military policies and the welfare of armed forces personnel. It highlights the complexities involved in providing adequate support to soldiers and their families, particularly those serving under unique recruitment models like Agniveers. As the debate continues, the government faces scrutiny over its handling of military benefits and the transparency of information provided to the public and Parliament.
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