Chennai, Dec 15 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, has issued a fierce critique of the BJP-led Central government, accusing it of a deliberate effort to undermine the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), a pivotal initiative that significantly contributes to rural poverty reduction throughout India.

In a strongly worded message shared on the social media platform X, Stalin condemned the Centre's intention to rename and restructure the scheme, labeling it an ideological attack on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and the rights of rural laborers.

Stalin claimed that the BJP government's actions stem from a “deep-seated animosity” towards the Father of the Nation, as they attempt to erase Mahatma Gandhi's name from the scheme in favor of what he described as an “unpronounceable Sanskritized, North Indian name” — allegedly the Viksit Bharat Rojgar and Awas Yojana. He emphasized that this renaming initiative is more than just a superficial change; it signifies a broader effort to dilute the essence of the program.

The Chief Minister raised significant concerns about the proposed alterations to the funding structure. He noted that MGNREGS was initially introduced with full financial backing from the Union government, but the new proposal suggests a reduction of the Centre's contribution to only 60 percent.

Stalin warned that such a shift would critically weaken the scheme and impose additional burdens on states that are already heavily investing in social welfare.

Another critical issue raised by Stalin was the “punishment of success”. He argued that Tamil Nadu, which has made remarkable progress in reducing rural poverty, is now being penalized for its success.

As a state identified with lower poverty rates, Tamil Nadu may receive diminished benefits under the revised framework, depriving eligible rural workers of essential employment opportunities.

Launched in 2005, the MGNREGS has played an instrumental role in ensuring guaranteed employment through projects focused on water conservation, land development, rural roads, and livestock-related infrastructure.

Stalin underscored that the scheme has lifted millions out of poverty, enabling them to live with dignity.

Drawing parallels with past policy changes, the Chief Minister cautioned the Centre that popular resistance would once again emerge. “Just as you were compelled to retract on the three farm laws and the caste-based census, the people will undoubtedly urge you to withdraw from this attempt to dismantle MGNREGS,” he stated.

Stalin called on the Union government to retract the proposed Viksit Bharat – Guarantee Scheme for Employment and Livelihood immediately, warning that failure to do so would provoke the “wrath of the people” across the nation.