Agniveer row: Former IAF chief RKS Bhadauria explains the compensation structure and its consumption of time

In a recent interview, Bhadauria has broken down the structure of the compensation and various processes required to go through before the families of the Agniveer soldiers are benefitted.

Speaking to ANI, he said, "There is a process for compensation and other amounts because if it is a battle casualty or physical casualty which is attributable, it is managed by the government and therefore it has to be established. That process of establishment follows certain guidelines."

"The post-mortem report should come, all the incident reports, the court of inquiry, and the report from the police--these are the major elements. This process needs to be completed. It is no different in the case of a normal soldier or an Agniveer. It is the same."

Speaking about the time taken for the process, Bhadauria said as quoted by NDTV, "Normally it takes two to three months because there is an inquiry involved."

"Every unit takes great care. They are at pains to be in touch with the family. They are always in touch with the family and they explain at length."

Rahul Gandhi's allegation and Army's reply

Hours after Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's claim that Rajnath Singh "lied" to Parliament about compensation of Rs. 1 crore being handed over to Agniveer Ajay Kumar's family, the Indian Army has clarified that the money was indeed paid.

"Certain posts on Social Media have brought out that compensation hasn't been paid to the Next of Kin of Agniveer Ajay Kumar who lost his life in the line of duty," said the Army in a post on X, underlining that it salutes the supreme sacrifice made by the Agniveer.

"The last rites were carried out with full Military Honours. Of the total amount due, family of Agniveer Ajay has already been paid ₹ 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 ₹ 1.65 Cr approximately," the Army added.

However, Ajay Singh stated that "their family had not received" any compensation from the Central government, which is a complete counter to the statement made by the Defence Minister.

"Rahul Gandhi is raising our voice in Parliament that families of martyrs must get all necessary help. Agniveer recruitment must stop and regular recruitment should be reinstated," said the Agniveer's father.

Launched in 2022, Agnipath scheme provides for short-term induction of personnel into the armed forces with an aim to bring down the age profile of the three services. Those recruited under the scheme are called Agniveers.