Indian Army on Wednesday issued a clarification on the compensation provided to Agniveer Ajay Kumar’s family after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi alleged that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had lied in the parliament about the emoluments.
In a post on social media X. the AGD PI Indian Army tweeted, “*CLARIFICATION ON EMOLUMENTS TO AGNIVEER AJAY KUMAR*
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.
It is emphasised that the Indian Army salutes the supreme sacrifice made by Agniveer Ajay Kumar."
The last rites were carried out with full Military Honours.
Of the total amount due, 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.
It is re-emphasised that emoluments due to a fallen hero are paid expeditiously to the Next of Kin of departed soldiers, including Agniveers,” the army added.
Rahul Gandhi had shared a video that claimed to show Kumar’s father stating that the family had not received any monetary assistance.
Singh had earlier mentioned in the parliament that Rs 1 crore was given to the family of the martyred.
The 23-year-old Kumar was martyred during line of duty due to a land mine