‘One Nation, One Sacrifice’: Agniveer Who Died Of Self-Inflicted Injuries To Be Given ‘Martyr’ Status In Punjab
‘One Nation, One Sacrifice’: Agniveer Who Died Of Self-Inflicted Injuries To Be Given ‘Martyr’ Status In Punjab
Agniveer Amritpal Singh, the first Agniveer to have lost his life while on duty, is set to be posthumously honored with the designation of ‘martyr’ in Punjab, as announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Singh, aged 19, tragically passed away due to “self-inflicted injuries” during his sentry duty on October 10, as confirmed by the Indian Army.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, in a move to highlight what he perceives as discrimination against Agniveers, particularly those serving in the Indian Army on a contractual basis of four years, has emphasized that Singh’s sacrifice is no less significant than that of any regular soldier.
Mann further accentuated his stance by rallying behind the slogan “One Nation, One Sacrifice,” which serves as a poignant counterpoint to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s well-known slogans such as “One Nation, One Election” or “One Nation, One Ration Card.” In doing so, the Chief Minister aims to underscore the fundamental principle that the sacrifice made by individuals, irrespective of their background or contractual status, is an equally significant contribution to the nation’s welfare and security.
Additionally, Bhagwant Mann demonstrated the state’s recognition and support for Singh’s family by presenting them with a financial grant of Rs 1 crore on behalf of the Punjab government. This gesture not only serves as a mark of respect for the deceased Agniveer’s dedication and service but also signifies the government’s commitment to standing by the families of those who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation.
Upon meeting the bereaved family of the late Agniveer Amritpal Singh, the Punjab Chief Minister expressed his observations about the lack of awareness concerning the nature of an Agniveer, even within the family of the deceased. He highlighted that Amritpal’s father, in particular, was unfamiliar with the specific role and significance of an Agniveer, remarking that he had simply sent his son to serve in the Army.
In honor of the late Agniveer’s sacrifice and service, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has pledged to construct a stadium in the memory of Amritpal Singh at Kotil Kalan village. Additionally, the Chief Minister has announced plans for the installation of a statue in his honor. Furthermore, as a gesture of support and acknowledgment, the government plans to offer employment to a member of Amritpal Singh’s family.
Amritpal Singh tragically lost his life due to self-inflicted injuries while on sentry duty on October 10. Following his demise, the Agniveer unit facilitated the transportation of his remains to his hometown by arranging for a civilian ambulance. The Indian Army, in accordance with its existing policy concerning deaths resulting from self-inflicted injuries, did not conduct military honors for the late Agniveer. However, Army officers did visit his family for the observance of the last rites, demonstrating their respect and condolences for the loss suffered by the family.
Bhagwant Mann, the Chief Minister of Punjab, has raised significant concerns regarding the denial of military honors for the late Agniveer Amritpal Singh, questioning the Ministry of Defence’s decision. He expressed his dismay at the lack of recognition for the sacrifice made by the Agniveer and criticized the notion that the defense ministry, given its substantial budget, could not provide appropriate honors such as arranging for an ambulance and a final salute for the martyr, as reported by the Times of India.
Moreover, Mann voiced skepticism about the assertion that Amritpal Singh’s death was a result of suicide, urging for substantial evidence to support such claims. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the Agniveer scheme, raising doubts about its effectiveness due to the relatively short duration of training. Comparatively, he highlighted that even the training provided to Patwaris extends over a year.
Mann further advocated for improved retirement options for individuals serving under the Agniveer scheme, emphasizing that those who make significant sacrifices for the nation should be entitled to more comprehensive post-service benefits. Drawing attention to the comfortable retirement plans afforded to cricketers after a few appearances, as well as to Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) after only one term, he questioned why a similar approach could not be extended to those who lay down their lives in service to the country. These statements underscore Mann’s commitment to advocating for the welfare and rights of individuals serving in defense-related roles, calling for equitable treatment and recognition of their invaluable contributions to the nation.
