Punjab: The family of Agniveer Lovepreet Singh (24) of Aklia village in Mansa district, who was martyred on January 22 in Kalaroos area of Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, has sought financial help from the government. Lovepreet’s cousin Jaswant Singh said, “Lovepreet sacrificed his life while fighting the enemies in Kupwara. His family is poor and they have only 2.5 acres of land. One member of the family should get a job, besides financial benefits and a school or stadium should be named after Lovepreet.” Village sarpanch Jasvir Singh said Lovepreet “died in an encounter with the enemies. That is why he was given army honours at his funeral. The cause of his death has not been officially disclosed yet. But we believe it was an encounter with terrorists.” Lovepreet is survived by his father Beant Singh, mother Gurmeet Kaur and elder brother Sewak Singh. Lovepreet was serving in the 99 Medium Regiment. He joined the Army under the Agneepath scheme about two years ago. Sources say his service rifle fired accidentally, killing him. According to the Mansa District Sainik Welfare Office, Lovepreet was on road opening duty with another soldier when he himself moved aside. Soon the other soldier heard the sound of gunshot. Mansa Deputy Commissioner Kulwant Singh said the administration has not yet received any official information about how Lovepreet died. Villagers described Lovepreet as a promising and dedicated youth who brought laurels to the village by serving in the army. He said, “His sacrifice for the country will always be remembered.” Villagers have urged the Center to improve the Agneepath scheme, so that Agniveers can get the same benefits as other military personnel. Lovepreet was the younger of two brothers. He was to attend his elder brother’s wedding in the coming days. His untimely death has come as a shock to the family. Political leaders expressed their condolences on social media. They described Lovepreet as a martyr.
Punjab: Agniveer’s family sought financial assistance
