New Delhi/IBNS: Hours after Rahul Gandhi's claim that Rajnath Singh "lied" to Parliament about compensation of Rs. 1 crore being handed over to Agniveer Ajay Kumar's family, the Indian Army has clarified that the money was indeed paid.

"Certain posts on Social Media have brought out that compensation hasn't been paid to the Next of Kin of Agniveer Ajay Kumar who lost his life in the line of duty," said the Army in a post on X, underlining that it salutes the supreme sacrifice made by the Agniveer.

"The last rites were carried out with full Military Honours. Of the total amount due, family of Agniveer Ajay has already been paid ₹ 98.39 lakhs. Ex - Gratia and other benefits amounting to approximately 67 lakhs, as applicable according to the provisions of the Agniveer Scheme, will be paid on Final Account Settlement shortly post due Police verification. The total amount will be ₹ 1.65 Cr approximately," the Army added.

Reposting the Army's clarification, Rajnath Singh's office said, "Indian Army is committed for the welfare of Agniveers."

The clarification came within two hours of a video message posted by Rahul Gandhi, doubling down on his statement that compensation has not been paid to Agniveer Ajay Kumar's family. 

"Protection of truth is the basis of every religion. But Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lied in Parliament about the assistance given to the family of martyred Agniveer. Agniveer Ajay Singh's father himself has told the truth about their lies. The Defence Minister should apologise to the Parliament, the country, the Army and the family of Agniveer Ajay Singh ji," Gandhi, seated next to a Lord Shiva picture, said.

Launched in 2022, Agnipath scheme provides for short-term induction of personnel into the armed forces with an aim to bring down the age profile of the three services. Those recruited under the scheme are called Agniveers.

In the same video, the father of Ajay Singh stated that "their family had not received" any compensation from the Central government, which is a complete counter to the statement made by the Defence Minister.

"Rahul Gandhi is raising our voice in Parliament that families of martyrs must get all necessary help. Agniveer recruitment must stop and regular recruitment should be reinstated," said the Agniveer's father.