Why Are MP Cong MLAs Protesting the Centre's Renaming of MGNREGA?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic session marking Madhya Pradesh's Legislative Assembly's 70th anniversary, Congress MLAs protested against the Centre's decision to rename MGNREGA. The controversy stirs debates on political manipulation and the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. What does this mean for the future of rural employment in India?
Key Takeaways
- Protests led by Congress MLAs highlight concerns over renaming MGNREGA.
- The BJP's defense focuses on progress and corruption allegations during Congress's rule.
- New Bill introduced aims to replace MGNREGA with VB G RAM G.
- MGNREGA has been a landmark program since 2005.
- Debate on Gandhi's legacy continues in political discussions.
Bhopal, Dec 17 (NationPress) A special session held to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly kicked off with fierce protests from Congress members regarding the Central government's proposal to change the name of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
Under the leadership of Opposition Leader Umang Singhar, Congress MLAs gathered near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi on the Assembly grounds to voice their dissent against the suggested name change to ‘Viksit Bharat G RAM G’.
During the protest, Singhar criticized the government, claiming it was disrespecting Mahatma Gandhi.
“While Prime Minister Narendra Modi promotes Gandhi's charkha, his administration seeks to erase Gandhi’s legacy from one of the nation’s vital welfare programs. This is an affront to the Father of the Nation, which the Congress refuses to tolerate,” he stated.
In response, the ruling BJP staunchly defended the government's actions, accusing the Congress of manipulating Gandhi's name for political advantage. BJP leaders also criticized the Congress for alleged corruption during the MGNREGA's implementation, which they argued disrespected Gandhi's principles.
BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma, representing the Huzur constituency in Bhopal, asserted that the BJP aims to adhere to Gandhi's principles rather than just reference his name.
“The Congress has repeatedly invoked Mahatma Gandhi's name, made promises, yet has failed to deliver homes to the underprivileged. We embody Gandhi's vision and strive for real change,” Sharma told IANS.
Sharma further claimed that Prime Minister Modi has made tangible efforts to fulfill Gandhi's vision of Ram Rajya.
“The BJP government has constructed the Ram Temple, provided permanent housing for impoverished families, issued health insurance cards valued at Rs 5 lakh, and recognized farmers,” he noted.
The Centre has proposed a Bill in Parliament to supplant the MGNREGA with a new initiative titled ‘The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Grameen)’, abbreviated as VB G RAM G. A directive has been issued to BJP MPs to ensure the Bill's approval.
Initiated by the UPA government in 2005, MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of wage employment for rural households and is celebrated as a groundbreaking social security program.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this situation with neutrality. The protests reflect deep-rooted sentiments about Mahatma Gandhi's legacy and the role of political parties in shaping welfare policies. While Congress raises valid concerns about preserving historical legacies, the BJP's arguments regarding progress and corruption also warrant consideration. The discourse surrounding MGNREGA's renaming is significant, impacting rural employment and social security in India.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MGNREGA?
MGNREGA stands for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households in India.
Why are Congress MLAs protesting?
Congress MLAs are protesting against the Centre's proposal to rename MGNREGA to 'Viksit Bharat G RAM G', claiming it disrespects Mahatma Gandhi's legacy.
What are the BJP's views on the renaming?
The BJP defends the renaming as a necessary step, accusing Congress of exploiting Gandhi's name for political purposes and alleging corruption during their tenure.
What actions has the Centre taken regarding MGNREGA?
The Centre has introduced a Bill in Parliament to replace MGNREGA with a new program titled 'The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Grameen)'.
When was MGNREGA launched?
MGNREGA was launched in 2005 by the UPA government and has been a significant social security initiative for rural employment.
