The Indian Army issued a robust statement addressing misinformation regarding the compensation paid to the family of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who lost his life in the line of duty. The Army clarified that contrary to certain social media posts, the family has already received Rs 98.39 lakhs out of the total due amount.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Indian Army emphasized, “…of the total amount due, the family of Agniveer Ajay has already been paid Rs 98.39 lakhs. Ex-Gratia and other benefits amounting to approximately 67 lakhs, as applicable according to the provisions of the Agniveer Scheme, will be paid on Final Account Settlement shortly post due Police verification. The total amount will be Rs 1.65 Cr approximately.”
The Army further clarified that the last rites of Agniveer Ajay Kumar were conducted with full Military Honours, honoring his supreme sacrifice for the nation. It reiterated its commitment to expedite the payment of emoluments to the Next of Kin of fallen heroes, including Agniveer Ajay Kumar, as per established procedures.
The issue came to light following allegations by Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi earlier in the day. Rahul Gandhi had accused Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of misleading Parliament regarding the compensation to families of martyred Agniveers and demanded an apology. He shared a video on social media purportedly showing the father of a deceased Agniveer claiming they had not received the promised Rs 1 crore compensation.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined in, condemning the BJP for allegedly neglecting the sacrifices made by soldiers’ families. She accused the government of dishonoring the commitment made to these families who sacrificed their sons for the country.