Congress launches nationwide agitation against ‘Agnipath’ scheme

Jammu, Feb 12: National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) Jammu Kashmir launched “Jai Jawan Movement” against the 'Agnipath’ scheme' here on Monday at JKPCC office, Shaheedi Chowk Jammu.

President JKPCC Vikar Rasool Wani was the chief guest on this occasion.

The function was organized by JKNSUI president Ajay Lakhotra and attended by former national president NSUI and member CWC Neeraj Kundan; PCC general secretaries Narinder Gupta (Organisation) and Narinder Sharma; chairman Social Media Department Jatin K Raina; in-charge PYC HQ Ricky Dalotra, senior NSUI functionaries Bhavanyu Bhagat, Mehmood Kadri, Manas Gandhi, Javed Chauhan, Kamra  Mubarraz, Tarun Manhas besides others.

Speaking on the occasion PCC chief Vikar Rasool Wani said that the Agnipath scheme affected a large section of society. He said, “The country like India does not want soldiers on contract basis. Only regular soldiers can save the country. The armed forces are already facing a shortage of three lakh soldiers. This scheme will weaken our country.”

He alleged, “Army veterans were not consulted.” “The scheme has created a divide among soldiers and that’s why we are launching the Jai Jawan Mission,” he said.

The young candidates, who cleared examinations but were not given appointment letters, were protesting at Jantar Mantar. “We will continue the agitation till we get justice for the 1.5 lakh young individuals and the Agnipath scheme is scrapped,” he said.  These candidates who were selected but not recruited had earlier met Rahul Gandhi and had been assured full support from the Congress.