Faridkot, Punjab – A wave of grief and defiance has swept through Kothe Chahal village in the Kotkapura constituency of Punjab’s Faridkot district after the tragic death of 20-year-old Agniveer Akashdeep Singh, a young soldier who had joined the Indian Army under the Agnipath scheme.
Akashdeep Singh, who had been serving in the Punjab Regiment, lost his life in the line of duty—details of which are still emerging. However, it is not just his untimely death that has stirred emotions, but also the Indian government’s stance on the recognition of Agniveers who die in service.
His mother, Karamjit Kaur, has taken a firm stand. “We will not immerse my son’s ashes until he is declared a martyr,” she said, her voice choked with emotion but resolute. “He wore the uniform of the Indian Army. He served the nation. His sacrifice is no less than that of any other soldier.”
Akashdeep had joined the armed forces two years ago through the Agnipath scheme, an initiative introduced in 2022 that allows young men and women aged 17.5 to 21 to serve in the military for a period of four years as Agniveers. While the scheme was launched to create a leaner, more tech-savvy military and reduce long-term pension burdens, it has also faced criticism over the short-term nature of the commitment and the benefits extended to Agniveers.
The issue of recognition for fallen Agniveers has now taken center stage. While regular soldiers are often posthumously honored as martyrs, the current policy has yet to clearly establish whether Agniveers who die in service are given the same status.
Akashdeep’s death has reignited debate around the Agnipath scheme, with political leaders, military veterans, and citizen groups calling for greater clarity and fairness in how Agniveers are treated—both in life and in death.
Local residents and leaders in Faridkot have rallied behind the Singh family. Candlelight vigils, social media campaigns, and demands for justice have begun to gather momentum.
“This is not just about one boy,” said Baljit Singh, a retired army havildar and neighbor of the family. “This is about recognizing the sacrifice of all Agniveers who die while serving the nation.”
For now, Akashdeep’s ashes remain at home, guarded by the love and anguish of a grieving mother who is not ready to say her final goodbye—until her son’s sacrifice is officially honored.