After Nitish’s support to Modi, JD(U) puts forth Agniveer, caste census demands

The Bharatiya Janata Party’s key ally, Nitish’s Janata Dal (United), has called for a review of the Centre’s Agniveer scheme for recruitment to defence forces. This comes as Lok Sabha election results declared on Wednesday have restricted the BJP to just 240 seats, 32 seats short of majority to form government on its own under Narendra Modi.

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JD(U) Seeks Discussion on Agniveer Scheme, Clarifies Stance on UCC

JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi stated that some voters are dissatisfied with the Agniveer scheme. He mentioned that the party wants to address and resolve the issues raised by the public through detailed discussions, as reported by ANI.

Tyagi clarified that the party is not opposed to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). He noted that the party’s national president and Chief Minister had written to the Law Commission chief regarding the UCC. While they are not against it, they believe that a solution should be achieved by consulting all stakeholders.

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JD(U) Leader Advocates for Caste-based Census and Special Status for Bihar

However, the senior JD(U) leader reaffirmed his support for a caste-based census and called for special status for Bihar.

He stated, “No party in the country has opposed a caste-based census. Bihar has led the way. Even the PM did not oppose it in the all-party delegation. A caste-based census is essential at this time, and we will continue to advocate for it.”

He further added, “Our support is unconditional. There are no preconditions. However, granting special status to Bihar is something we deeply desire.”

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Opposition Criticizes Agniveer Scheme, Calls for Caste-based Census

The INDIA bloc, in its election pledge, condemned the Agniveer scheme and promised to abolish it if elected. Earlier this month, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote to President Droupadi Murmu, urging intervention in the Agniveer scheme to address what he termed “discrimination” in the benefits provided to the families of deceased soldiers.

The opposition has also emphasized the need for a caste-based census, with Bihar conducting one under Nitish Kumar’s leadership in the Mahagathbandhan government.

General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), highlighted the scheme’s importance in fostering a young and dynamic military. He stated that it aids nation-building by developing skilled, disciplined, and motivated youth.

On Wednesday, Narendra Modi and senior Bharatiya Janata Party leaders met with National Democratic Alliance leaders, marking their first gathering since securing a Lok Sabha majority. Expressing their confidence in Modi, the NDA leaders selected him as the alliance’s leader, setting the stage for his third consecutive term as prime minister.

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