📷 Image Credits: NDTV
The Indian Army has responded to the claim made by Rahul Gandhi regarding the compensation to Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s family. In a late-night post on Wednesday, the Army clarified that Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s family has been paid Rs 98.39 lakh within hours of the statement made by the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. The Army highlighted that certain social media posts questioning the payment of compensation to the family are inaccurate and that the last rites of Agniveer Ajay Kumar were carried out with full Military Honours.
According to sources, the total amount due to the family has been broken down to approximately 67 lakhs in ex-gratia and other benefits, with Rs 98 lakh already paid at the end of June. The total compensation is expected to be around Rs 1.65 crore, as per the provisions of the Agniveer Scheme. The Army reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Agniveers, emphasizing the importance of honoring fallen heroes.
Rahul Gandhi’s video message, calling out Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for alleged misinformation in Parliament, prompted the clarification from the Army. In response to Gandhi’s claims, the Army reiterated the speedy disbursement of emoluments to the families of departed soldiers, including Agniveers.
The ongoing debate surrounding the Agniveer scheme and financial assistance to the families of martyred individuals has sparked a discussion on the treatment of Agniveers and regular military personnel. While the Defence Minister maintains that a compensation of Rs 1 crore is provided to families of Agniveers who sacrifice their lives, the issue of pensions and benefits remains a point of contention.
The case of Agniveer Ajay Singh, along with other Agniveers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, sheds light on the complexities of compensation and support for the families of military personnel. The importance of transparency and timely payments in honoring the sacrifices made by these individuals cannot be overstated.
