SP MP Dharmendra Yadav criticised the CAPF Bill in Lok Sabha, alleging lack of consultation, ignoring OPS demands, and warning it could demoralise forces while calling for martyr status for all fallen personnel.

SP MP Dharmendra Yadav Demands Martyr Status for All Fallen Soldiers
New Delhi: Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav on Thursday launched a sharp critique of the proposed CAPF Bill in the Lok Sabha, alleging that the government had failed to consult stakeholders and overlooked serious concerns raised by personnel.
Speaking during the debate, Yadav said that while Parliament would have proudly backed legislation honouring those who helped eliminate Naxalism, the current bill lacked that spirit and inclusivity. He questioned why no delegations were consulted, adding that several officers had personally approached opposition leaders to voice their apprehensions.
In an emotional appeal, Yadav demanded that all personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty whether in anti-Naxal operations or at the borders be accorded official ‘martyr’ status.
“If the government had brought a bill that provided benefits to those who helped free us from Naxalism, the entire House would have passed it with pride. But on the CAPF Bill, it doesn’t seem you even met any delegation. Many officers came to us sharing their concerns—if only you… pic.twitter.com/i0wcOgKBkX
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He said such recognition would not only honour their sacrifice but also send a strong message of respect and support to the armed forces and their families.
Highlighting the issue of pensions, Yadav referred to a 2023 ruling by the Delhi High Court, which had directed that central paramilitary forces be granted the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
He criticised the Centre for challenging the decision in the Supreme Court of India instead of implementing it. According to him, this move reflected the government’s unwillingness to address long-standing demands of CAPF personnel regarding financial security after retirement.
Yadav also raised concerns about what he described as the expanding powers of the Ministry of Home Affairs without corresponding accountability.
He argued that the proposed legislation appeared to centralise authority further while ignoring the welfare and operational concerns of the forces. “What is the point if only the Home Ministry’s powers keep increasing?” he asked, warning that such an approach could adversely impact morale within the ranks.
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The SP leader cautioned that the bill, in its current form, could have a demoralising effect on personnel serving in challenging conditions across the country.
He stressed that the voices of officers and ground-level staff must be taken seriously, especially when they are directly affected by policy changes. Yadav urged the government to reconsider key provisions and engage in meaningful dialogue before pushing the legislation forward.