Agnipath Scheme An Epic New Battle Between AAP And Centre

The issue can potentially turn into the latest conflict between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in the state and the BJP-ruled centre.

Rallies to recruit soldiers under the 'Agnipath' scheme may no longer be organised in Punjab, the Army has told the state government, citing "vacillating" support and "no clear-cut commitments" from the local administration.

The issue can potentially turn into the latest flashpoint in the conflict between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in the state and the BJP-ruled centre. Punjab minister Harpal Cheema has stressed that they were opposed to the scheme and will continue to protest against it.   

Major General Sharad Bikram Singh, the Army's zonal recruitment officer in Jalandhar, has written to Punjab Chief Secretary VK Janjua on the issue. In the letter dated September 8, Major Singh has said they are not receiving adequate support from the local administration in organising the rallies. "They are usually citing their inadequacies due to lack of directions from state government at Chandigarh or lack of funds," he has said.

Listing the requirements for conducting such rallies, the officer has said that police assistance, medical support and arrangements for food, water and toilets need to be in place for holding such rallies.