Amidst fervent opposition, the Indian National Congress has launched widespread protests against what it deems the "desecration of a groundbreaking law," referring to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). These demonstrations are taking place across district headquarters nationwide. The protests come in response to the Modi government's passage of the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, which is set to replace the two-decade-old MGNREGA upon notification.
The Congress party accuses the government of effectively dismantling MGNREGA, transforming it "from a right to a favor". Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that "two decades of progress have been overturned without consultation and by sidestepping all Parliamentary convention and procedure". He highlighted the stark contrast between the hasty passage of the VB-G RAM G Bill and the extensive deliberation, standing committee review, and unanimous bipartisan support that preceded MGNREGA's enactment in 2005. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, has also criticized the Modi government, asserting that the "black law" seeking to repeal MGNREGA will be defied by party workers across the country. She alleges that the government has ignored the interests of farmers, laborers, and the landless by weakening MGNREGA.
In response to the escalating criticism, Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has alleged a "conspiracy" to mislead the country regarding the VB-G RAM G scheme. In a video message, Chouhan stated that the new scheme is "in favor of the poor and development" and provides a "complete guarantee of employment to workers". He refuted claims of weakening the employment guarantee, asserting that the VB-G RAM G scheme is the "next step forward after MGNREGA". Chouhan emphasized that the new legislation expands entitlements for workers, guaranteeing 125 days of work instead of the previous 100. He also highlighted strengthened provisions for unemployment allowance and additional payments in case of wage delays. The minister further stated that a substantial amount of over ₹1,51,282 crore has been proposed for the scheme this year, ensuring sufficient funds for employment and comprehensive village development.
The Left parties have also joined the fray, calling for a nationwide protest demanding the withdrawal of the VB-G RAM G Bill. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on rural employment and the rights of workers. The opposition alleges that the Centre is deliberately undermining employment opportunities and neglecting the welfare of the poor.
The VB-G RAM G Bill guarantees 125 days of wage employment per rural household for adult members willing to undertake unskilled manual work. The fund-sharing pattern between the Central Government and the State Governments will be 60:40, while for the North Eastern States, Himalayan States, and Union Territories (Uttarakhand) it will be 90:10. The government aims to utilize the scheme for water conservation, village infrastructure projects, livelihood activities, and disaster prevention measures.
