Rahul Gandhi & Indian Army engage in war of words over Agniveer scheme

A war of words has erupted between the Indian Army and Rahul Gandhi, following his criticism of the Agniveer scheme during his recent speech in the Lok Sabha.

Rahul Gandhi, in his inaugural address as Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, touched upon various contentious issues ranging from the ethnic conflict in Manipur to the NEET controversy, and from the Agniveer recruitment scheme in the armed forces to the ongoing farm crisis and inflation, as well as the politics of hate. His remarks have drawn a strong response from the BJP government and the Indian Army, setting the stage for a political showdown.

Gandhi criticized the Agniveer scheme, stating, “Agniveer is a use and throw labour. One soldier is getting a pension, while another is not. You are creating a divide among soldiers”. He added that the government does not even give them (Agniveers) the status of a “shaheed”.