📷 Image Credits: India Today
Amidst the escalating Agniveer controversy, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again raised concerns about the treatment of the family of Agniveer Ajay Kumar. In a recent video shared on social media, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the fact that despite claims by the government, the family of the slain martyr has not yet received any compensation. The video showcased the father of the deceased Agniveer stating that the family received Rs 50 lakh from a private insurance bank and Rs 48 lakh from the Army Group Insurance Fund.
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the distinction between ‘compensation’ and ‘insurance’, pointing out that the family had not received ex-gratia payment from the government. He questioned the delay in crediting the family’s bank account with the salary arrears. The Congress leader stressed that the families of martyrs deserve proper support from the government and reiterated the importance of differentiating between compensation and insurance.
Furthermore, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Modi government for its alleged discrimination against the families of martyrs. He stated that every individual who sacrifices their life for the nation deserves respect and support, irrespective of their background. Gandhi highlighted the disparities in benefits provided to different categories of martyrs, urging for equal treatment and recognition of their sacrifices.
In response to these claims, the Indian Army clarified the financial assistance provided to the family of Agniveer Ajay Kumar. The Army stated that a total amount of Rs 98.39 lakhs had been paid to the family, with additional benefits amounting to approximately Rs 67 lakhs to be disbursed soon. The Army emphasized that the family would receive a total of around Rs 1.65 crore, including various benefits as per the Agniveer Scheme.
The Agniveer controversy has sparked debates over the treatment of martyrs’ families and the adequacy of support provided by the government. Rahul Gandhi’s advocacy for the rights of martyrs’ families and his call for transparency in the compensation process have drawn attention to the issue of honoring the sacrifices made by individuals in service of the nation. As the dialogue continues, the demand for accountability and equitable treatment for all martyrs’ families remains a prominent concern in the national discourse.
