"Agniveer is a use and throw labour” Rahul Gandhi criticizes Modi govt over Agniveer Scheme
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in his inaugural speech as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, launched a severe critique of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government. Focusing on the Agniveer scheme, Gandhi highlighted the disparity it creates among soldiers, pointing out that the policy ensures that some 'jawans' receive pensions while others do not.
"Agniveer is a use and throw labour. One jawan is getting a pension, while another is not. You are creating a divide between jawans," Gandhi stated in Parliament.
Gandhi directly blamed Prime Minister Modi, asserting that the Agniveer scheme was implemented without proper consultation and was a directive from the Prime Minister's Office.
During his speech, which caused uproar in the Parliament, Gandhi addressed various issues including the ongoing crisis in Manipur, farmers' concerns, demonetisation, and the Agniveer scheme.
The Narendra Modi government introduced the Agnipath scheme during its previous term to recruit youth aged 17.5-21 as soldiers for a period of four years. The initiative aims to modernize the military, foster a younger force, and alleviate long-term financial burdens from pensions and benefits.
However, the Agnipath scheme has faced criticism from various groups who argue that its short-term recruitment process could lead to job insecurity and inadequate training for military personnel. Even allies of the BJP-led NDA government, such as JD(U) and LJP (RV), have called for a review of the scheme.
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MP: 12 labourers killed, 20 injured as pick-up van overturns and crashes into SUV
Dhar (MP) (PTI): Twelve labourers were killed and 20 others injured when the pick-up van carrying them overturned and collided with an SUV in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday night, an official said.
The incident occurred at 8:30-9 PM. According to preliminary information, 35 labourers were returning home in a pickup van from Baggad in Dhar district when the driver lost control of the vehicle near Chikliya crossing. The vehicle overturned and collided with an SUV coming from the opposite direction.
"Twelve people died on the spot, while approximately 20 others were injured," said Dhar district's in-charge collector, Abhishek Choudhary.
The seriously injured persons were referred to Indore after initial treatment, he said.
Choudhary, DIG Mayank Awasthi, and police personnel rushed to the spot.
Tirla police have registered a case and are investigating the accident.
