An Agniveer recruit has been arrested for theft in Mohali, Punjab, raising questions about India's controversial military recruitment scheme. Police identified the suspect as Ashmeet Singh, who allegedly stole multiple motorcycles using illegal weapons.
The Agniveer scheme, introduced by Narendra Modi's government in June 2022, aims to recruit youth aged 17-21 for four-year military service terms. Critics argue that the program may lead to unemployment and potential security risks after the short service period.
Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the scheme, stating that the Modi government is using it for political purposes. Some of Modi's allied parties have called for the scheme's termination, claiming it poses a threat to the national defense system.
The incident has reportedly caused unease in influential Indian circles, with media outlets suggesting that the government is "playing with national security."
Concerns about the scheme's long-term impact on youth employment and national security continue to be debated in India.
