Is the DMK Alliance Protesting on December 24 Against the Centre's Rural Job Scheme Overhaul?
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Synopsis
The DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance is gearing up for a statewide protest on December 24 against the Union government's VB-G RAM G Bill, which seeks to repeal MGNREGA. This move is seen as a direct threat to rural employment and livelihoods, igniting political tensions in Tamil Nadu. Will this protest reshape the conversation around rural job schemes?
Key Takeaways
- The DMK and the SPA will protest against the VB-G RAM G Bill on December 24.
- Concerns are raised about the potential repeal of MGNREGA.
- The new bill is viewed as a threat to rural employment and livelihoods.
- The protests aim to mobilize a wide range of supporters, including local representatives.
- Political tensions are escalating in Tamil Nadu regarding employment guarantees.
Chennai, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) of Tamil Nadu, spearheaded by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), has declared a statewide demonstration on December 24 to contest the Union government's recently passed Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, which aims to abolish the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
The DMK and its coalition partners have denounced this action as a direct assault on rural livelihoods and an effort to undermine a vital social security initiative that has aided millions of at-risk families for almost twenty years.
This protest intends to rally beneficiaries of the existing 100-day rural employment initiative, alongside district secretaries, MLAs, local representatives, and members from the coalition parties.
According to a statement from the SPA, demonstrations are set to occur at 10 a.m. throughout the state, including locations in Chennai, district centers, and village panchayats.
The alliance has called upon all individuals reliant on the current rural job program to join in, emphasizing that the new legislation jeopardizes not only wages and employment opportunities but also challenges the core principle of guaranteed work established by MGNREGA.
The SPA also criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government for acting against the interests of the impoverished and condemned the AIADMK for its support of the Centre in this matter.
The proposed replacement legislation is said to impose an excessive financial burden on state governments while diminishing legal protections that ensured timely wage disbursements, transparency in job assignments, and accountability in program execution.
Opposition to the VB-G RAM G Bill has escalated in Tamil Nadu since December 18, when the state government formally expressed its grievances to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, in a comprehensive letter, voiced concerns that the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name symbolizes an attempt to erase the essence of a rights-oriented employment law. He argued that the new framework would endanger the livelihoods of millions of rural poor, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu, where the scheme has been widely adopted and effectively administered. He also cautioned that shifting financial responsibilities to the states without adequate central funding could strain Centre-State relations and hinder poverty reduction efforts.
As the protest approaches on December 24, the DMK-led alliance is poised to amplify political pressure on the Centre, indicating a sustained confrontation over what they perceive as a fundamental rollback of rural employment guarantees.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the implications this legislation could have on vulnerable populations. The dialogue surrounding employment guarantees must prioritize the needs of the rural poor while considering the fiscal responsibilities of state governments.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VB-G RAM G Bill?
The VB-G RAM G Bill is a newly enacted legislation by the Union government aiming to replace the MGNREGA, which has provided guaranteed rural employment for nearly two decades.
Why are protests being held against the VB-G RAM G Bill?
Protests are being held because the DMK and its allies view the bill as a direct threat to rural livelihoods and an attempt to undermine essential social security programs.
When and where will the protests take place?
The protests are scheduled for December 24 at 10 a.m. across Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, district centers, and village panchayats.
Who is leading the protests?
The protests are being led by the Secular Progressive Alliance, headed by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
What impact does the government say the bill will have?
The government argues that the new framework will enhance employment opportunities, but opponents say it threatens guaranteed work and the livelihoods of the rural poor.
