Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 25: BJP leader and head of the party’s National Information and Technology Department, Amit Malviya, launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of spreading misinformation regarding the Agniveer scheme for military recruitment.

Malviya dismissed claims that the scheme was implemented without consulting the Army, stating, “The biggest falsehood about Agniveer has now been exposed.” He was responding to allegations made by the Opposition that the government had introduced the scheme unilaterally.

Sharing a video featuring former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane on social media platform X, Malviya emphasized that the Agniveer scheme was not imposed on the Army. “General Naravane, who was falsely cited as proof that the Modi government introduced the scheme without consultation, has clarified that all stakeholders were involved in discussions before its implementation,” he stated.

Malviya further accused the Congress of orchestrating a misinformation campaign. “Another attempt to mislead the public by the Opposition has failed,” he remarked.

Home Minister Amit Shah also joined the counteroffensive, targeting Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the Agniveer scheme. Labeling the Congress leader as a “lying machine,” Shah asserted that the government was committed to securing the future of Agniveers.

“Rahul Gandhi claims that the Agniveer scheme was launched to avoid providing pensionable jobs. I want to clarify that every Agniveer will receive a pensionable job,” Shah declared, referencing statements made during last year’s Haryana Assembly elections.

He further criticized Gandhi’s statements made during his visit to Haryana, where the Congress leader argued that the scheme would negatively impact youth. “He has not understood this scheme. Agniveer will ensure our forces remain young and dynamic,” Shah told a public gathering.

Rahul Gandhi, on the other hand, has persistently attacked the BJP government over the Agnipath scheme. He has alleged that the initiative was designed to deprive Agniveers of pensions, canteen facilities for their families, and the recognition of martyrdom.

In response to concerns regarding the future of Agniveers, the Ministry of Home Affairs has announced a significant move to support them. A decision has been made to reserve 10% of vacancies for ex-Agniveers in the recruitment of Constables (General Duty) and Riflemen in the Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Rifles, including the CISF and BSF.

Additionally, the ministry has introduced relaxations in the upper age limit and exemptions from the Physical Efficiency Test to facilitate their transition into these forces.