Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann visits Agniveer’s kin, gives Rs 1 crore compensation

Mahesh Sharma

Mandi Ahmedgarh, January 25

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited the grieving family of Agniveer Ajai Singh in their village, Ramgarh Sardaran, on Thursday. The soldier was martyred in a landmine blast in Jammu and Kashmir a week ago. The family was presented a Rs 1 crore cheque as ex-gratia grant by the CM. Mann also announced a plan to construct a sports stadium in memory of Ajai Singh and accepted the residents’ demand that the government school in the village be upgraded.

“Though the loss of a son is a sacrifice that cannot be repaid in terms of monetary gains, we will try to make up for the family and the village by perpetuating his memory through memorials, as desired by the residents,” said Mann, adding that most demands made by the family would be fulfilled in time.

Ajai Singh’s family had demanded the upgradation and rechristening of the government school, construction of a sports stadium in the martyr’s name and upgradation of the 25-bed hospital, besides early approval of the facilities the family is entitled to.

Accepting a job application from Ajai’s sister Anjali, Mann said: “We will make sure that you get an honourable job after completing your BA.”

Criticising the Agniveer Scheme, Mann argued that it (scheme) was a gross disrespect to the contribution and supreme sacrifices made by brave soldiers, terming it ‘exploitation’ of the youth of the country. “Agniveers are sent back without any financial security after their calibre in their youth is used. This scheme is a blot on society should be withdrawn in the larger interest of the country,” said the CM, adding that those in power at the Centre have no sympathy for the families of the martyrs.

“On the other hand Punjabis remained frontline warriors during the freedom struggle and are protecting the Nation even now which is why we value our martyrs,” said Mann.

The Chief Minister said he had instructed the administration officials to look after the family. He said they should not have to visit government offices to get official chores done. “We will give you phone numbers and officials concerned will reach out to you to resolve any problems you may face. From now on, we are a family,” said Mann.

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