Listen to voice of unemployed youth: Rahul Gandhi as protests erupt against Agnipath scheme in many states

New Delhi: Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday urged the government to listen to the voice of unemployed youth, protests erupted in several parts of the country against the new recruitment scheme for the forces..

"No rank, no pension, no direct recruitment for two years, no stable future after four years... No respect for the army," Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet.

"Listen to the voice of the unemployed youth of the country, don't test their patience by driving them on 'Agneepath', Mr. Prime Minister," he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with three service chiefs, on Tuesday launched the Agnipath scheme, under which youth will be given an opportunity to serve in the armed forces as "Agniveers."

The Agniveers will serve in the forces for four years and 25 per cent will be absorbed in the Force. The Home Ministry has said they will also give preference to Agniveers in the CAPFs. On Thursday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also said that they will get preference in selection for state police.

Protests erupted across the country on Thursday against the new recruitment scheme announced by the government. The youth took to streets in several towns and cities, raising slogans. (UNI)