Why Did Trinamool Hold a 12-Hour Dharna on Parliament Grounds Over the G RAM G Bill?
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Synopsis
On December 19, Trinamool Congress MPs protested for 12 hours at Parliament against the passage of the G RAM G Bill. This demonstration raises significant questions about democratic processes and respect for legislative norms, emphasizing the party's concerns over the Bill's implications for rural employment and governance.
Key Takeaways
- Trinamool Congress MPs conducted a 12-hour dharna at Parliament.
- The protest was against the G RAM G Bill and its implications for rural employment.
- Concerns were raised about the undemocratic passage of the legislation.
- Key leaders voiced opposition to the Bill's effects on MGNREGA.
- The Bill proposes 125 days of employment, replacing the guaranteed 100 days.
New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) Members of the Trinamool Congress organized a 12-hour dharna on the grounds of Parliament, voicing their opposition to the way the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, informally known as the G RAM G Bill, was approved by both legislative Houses.
The demonstration commenced at 1 a.m. near the primary entrance of the old Parliament building and is expected to last until noon. Trinamool Congress representatives charged that the Bill was hurriedly passed without sufficient discussion, breaching parliamentary protocols and compromising democratic values.
During a media briefing amid the protest, Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose remarked that the party initiated this sit-in to challenge what she labeled an 'undemocratic' and 'forced' enactment of the legislation.
“We began this twelve-hour sit-in protest at midnight, concluding today at noon. Our demonstration is against this black law, the Viksit Bharat G RAM G Bill, which has been introduced in a way that undermines MGNREGA and disrespects the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi,” she stated.
Ghose went on to accuse the Modi administration of advancing bills in Parliament without appropriate deliberation.
“This government has disrespected the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore and is forcefully pushing bills through Parliament. This represents a serious attack on democracy and parliamentary practices, and our protest is against this undemocratic method,” she added.
Trinamool Congress MP Dola Sen echoed similar views, presenting two explicit objections.
“The MGNREGA scheme, which promised 100 days of work annually to the most disadvantaged communities under Mahatma Gandhi’s name, is being eroded. Those on the treasury benches were not involved in the freedom struggle and show no reverence for freedom fighters or Mahatma Gandhi,” she said.
Dola Sen further criticized the ruling party for glorifying Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi, saying that the government operates under the mindset of 'Modi Hai Toh Mumkin Hai.' “That is why we, the Opposition, felt compelled to walk out,” she remarked.
Trinamool Congress MP Sushmita Dev noted that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has vocally opposed the Bill, asserting that it significantly diminishes the guaranteed 100 days of employment under MGNREGA.
“While the Bill mentions 125 days, the Centre will now dictate how many individuals will actually receive this employment. Previously, approximately 90 percent of MGNREGA funding originated from the Centre. Following this amendment, only 60 percent will be covered by the Central government, compelling states to finance the remaining amount. This undermines the fundamental purpose of MGNREGA,” she stated.
The protest ensued during a tumultuous parliamentary session characterized by shouting and opposition demonstrations, during which the Lok Sabha passed the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, via a voice vote on Thursday. The Bill aims to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with an updated framework promising 125 days of wage employment for rural households.
In spite of opposition calls for thorough examination and debate, the legislation was approved, after which the House was adjourned until December 19. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan defended the Bill amidst interruptions, highlighting stark differences between the government’s stance and that of the Opposition.
Point of View
The recent dharna by Trinamool Congress underscores a crucial moment for democracy. The concerns raised about legislative processes and rural employment are valid, reflecting a broader sentiment of accountability and respect for democratic norms. It's essential for all political entities to engage in meaningful discourse to uphold the values of democracy and serve the public interest.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the G RAM G Bill?
The G RAM G Bill, or Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, aims to replace MGNREGA with a new framework promising 125 days of wage employment for rural households.
Why did Trinamool Congress protest?
Trinamool Congress protested against what they termed an undemocratic passage of the G RAM G Bill, claiming it undermines the MGNREGA scheme.
What are the implications of the G RAM G Bill?
The Bill is expected to dilute the guaranteed 100 days of employment under MGNREGA, shifting funding responsibilities to states and potentially reducing the number of beneficiaries.
Who are the key figures involved in the protest?
Key figures include Trinamool Congress MPs Sagarika Ghose, Dola Sen, and Sushmita Dev, alongside Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
What was the outcome of the protest?
The protest highlighted significant opposition to the Bill and raised questions about democratic processes, though the Lok Sabha passed the Bill amidst disruptions.
