Following the controversy surrounding the Agniveer recruitment scheme, the opposition is now preparing to challenge the government over the formation of an Ahir regiment in the Indian Army. Congress MP Deepender Hooda has submitted a notice to raise this demand during the ongoing budget session of Parliament. The call for an Ahir regiment, however, is not new. Various political parties have periodically made this demand, arguing that if regiments based on Rajput, Jat, and Mahar communities exist, an Ahir regiment should also be established. Nonetheless, both the Indian Army and the government have traditionally opposed the creation of new regiments based on caste or religion.
Political Motivations and Historical Context
With assembly elections approaching in Haryana, Deepender Hooda, Congress MP from Rohtak, is leveraging the demand for an Ahir regiment to gain political traction. On the first day of the Parliament session, Hooda reiterated his demand, emphasizing the dedication and sacrifices of the Ahir community. He argued that forming an Ahir regiment would preserve the community’s traditional military zeal and passion for future generations.
In a recent public meeting, Hooda expressed his commitment to fighting for the Ahir regiment. He assured that if the Congress forms the government in Haryana, the demand for the Ahir regiment would be a priority in the first cabinet meeting. This demand would then be forwarded to the Central Government.
Ahir Regiment: A Tribute to Historical Bravery
Hooda highlighted the bravery of the Ahirs throughout history, from resisting invasions by Taimur and Nadir Shah to participating in the First and Second World Wars and India’s wars post-independence. He particularly emphasized the Ahirs’ valour during the Battle of Rezangla in the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The 13th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, composed predominantly of Ahir soldiers, showcased exceptional bravery against the Chinese forces at Rezangla, Eastern Ladakh. Out of 117 soldiers, only three survived, with the rest fighting until their last breath. Major Shaitan Singh, who led the battalion, was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his gallantry.
Official Stance on New Regiments
Despite the historical contributions of the Ahirs, the Indian Army and the government maintain that new regiments will not be formed based on caste, community, religion, or region. Existing regiments like Dogra, Sikh, Rajput, and Punjab will remain unchanged. The government’s policy aims to ensure equal recruitment opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their background. This policy has been in place since independence to promote inclusivity and prevent division within the armed forces.
Recent Developments and Memorials
In response to the ongoing demand for an Ahir regiment, the government recently established the Ahir Dham memorial in the Chushul sector of Eastern Ladakh. This memorial honours the valour of Ahir soldiers who fought in the Battle of Rezangla. Located near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, the memorial stands as a testament to the bravery of Major Shaitan Singh and his men.
As the budget session continues, the debate over the formation of an Ahir regiment is expected to intensify, reflecting the broader political dynamics and historical legacies within Indian society.