NEW DELHI: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi has written to President Droupadi Murmu against Agnipath scheme, alleging that there was discrimination in the nature and extent of benefits given to families of slain Agniveers. Rahul urged the president to intervene as she is the supreme commander of the armed forces and the issue affects national security.
“There can be no clearer illustration of the fundamental flaw in Agnipath scheme — the creation of a ‘lesser’ cadre of soldiers who are expected to work on similar tasks with lower pay, benefits and prospects,” Rahul said in the letter.
“Discrimination in the nature and extent of benefits accorded to the families of our slain Agniveers, compared to regular soldiers warrants your urgent attention. This ‘anyaay’ is why Congress and our INDIA allies have strongly opposed Agnipath scheme, and have promised to repeal it if we form govt,” the former Congress chief said.
Rahul requested President Murmu to intervene even though he recognised that a president did not generally interfere in policy matters, which are the domain of the elected govt. “However, I believe an exception is warranted in this case, given both the seriousness of this issue and your unique position. You are the supreme commander of India’s armed forces. You have taken an oath to devote yourself to well being of people of India,” he said.
“I appeal to you to use your distinguished office to do ‘nyay’ to Agniveer soldiers who lay down their lives, by ensuring that they receive the same benefits as any soldier who makes the highest sacrifice for our motherland,” Rahul said.