Will compulsory military service unite Indians?

Citizens believe the move will make individuals responsible, but feel caste prejudices may not be fully uprooted.

Many western countries like Germany and Israel have compulsory military
training but their reasons are different. If we have compulsory training I think it will be good to tackle terrorism and generate a high level of vigilance and preparedness among people. But it may not negate caste and religious feelings because they are simply too deep-rooted.
—Rahul Singh

Varun Gandhi's prescription is not wrong. In fact, as responsible citizens, we should welcome such changes. After the Mumbai terror attack, we started blaming the authorities and criticised their inability to send commandos on time. The situation could have been tackled better, if citizens had been given army training. We can become soldiers and protect ourselves if called for.
—Sagar Karaf

I'm not sure if compulsory military training will serve to solve communal tensions but it is definitely a good idea for people to appreciate what it takes to protect the country's borders. It will instil patriotism which we sometimes lack. We don't appreciate our soldiers and how they struggle to make our lives safer. If one goes through hardships he learns to appreciate it.
—Aditya Shah

India has always been divided on the basis of caste and religion. There so much mobilisation happening on religious lines. Youth from different communities are being pitted against each other on the basis of religion and caste. I don't think, these activities can be stopped merely through military training. We need better solutions.
—Harvi Shah

We are a democratic country and everyone has the freedom to choose one's vocation. You cannot force people to compulsorily opt for army service. Politicians can't pass legislations in parliament and tell us how we must live our life. If the bill is passed, we will move towards dictatorship rather than democracy. Varun Gandhi is following his father’s footsteps.
—Arjun Singh

Compulsory military training is followed in some countries. The guidance will certainly help people learn the basics of battlefield tactics. Such individuals will be able to help out during any contingency. The threat of terrorists is looming large in our neighbourhood, Gandhi could have made these comments in that context rather than focusing on overcoming communalism.
—Gaurav Rajgore

Compulsory military service will instil a sense of patriotism in people and will therefore, help in uniting the country. Everybody will be working together and will be trained to overcome differences. Hence, the idea might work to overcome differences. The idea has to be implemented properly otherwise individuals may feel that their freedom is being infringed upon.
—Madhav Mehta