Protests erupted across India, particularly in Bihar, following the government's introduction of the Agnipath scheme, which aims to recruit young individuals into the Indian Armed Forces on a short-term contractual basis. The protests were largely driven by defense aspirants who were concerned about the implications of the new scheme, which offers a four-year service period with limited benefits.
In Bihar, the protests turned violent on both Wednesday and Thursday. Protesters blocked train and road traffic in districts like Jehanabad, Buxar, and Nawada, disrupting services on key railway routes such as Patna-Gaya and Patna-Buxar. Many trains were halted as demonstrators laid down on the tracks. Protesters also set railway coaches on fire and damaged public property. In Nawada, BJP MLA Aruna Devi’s vehicle was attacked by protesters, who hurled stones at her car, resulting in injuries to several people, including the legislator herself.
The protests involved aggressive actions like stone-pelting, burning tires on roads, and blocking highways. The local police used teargas and baton charges to disperse the crowds. Demonstrations extended beyond Bihar, reaching states such as Rajasthan, where protesters blocked highways and voiced their opposition to the Agnipath scheme.
The core of the protests is the objection to the Agnipath scheme’s structure. Under the scheme, recruits, known as Agniveers, will serve for four years, with only 25% retained for permanent service. The remainder will have to retire without pension benefits. Critics argue that this reduces long-term job security for youth and leaves them uncertain about their future after their service ends. Many protesters fear they will be left without viable employment options once their four years in the army are completed.
The Agnipath scheme, intended to modernize and shorten the recruitment process for the armed forces, has been met with mixed reactions. While the government asserts that Agniveers will have ample opportunities post-service, the protests highlight concerns about the potential economic and social instability for the youth involved.