Does BJP Hold Any Moral Ground to Discuss Gandhi and Protest at His Statue?
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Synopsis
In a striking press conference, Karnataka's Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar challenges the BJP's moral stance on Mahatma Gandhi, questioning their recent actions regarding the rural employment scheme. As tensions rise over the VB-G RAM G legislation, can the BJP reclaim credibility, or has it lost touch with its roots?
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar's strong critique of BJP's moral standing on Gandhi.
- Concerns over the new VB-G RAM G legislation affecting rural employment.
- Importance of MGNREGA in rural development and its historical significance.
- Call for protests to challenge the government's decision.
- Impact of BJP's actions on their political credibility.
Bengaluru, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, asserted on Saturday that the leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have forfeited their moral authority to discuss Mahatma Gandhi or stage protests near his statue.
During a press conference held alongside Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Chief Minister's residence, Shivakumar stated, "The BJP leaders have lost the right to stage protests near Mahatma Gandhiji's statue. They have also lost the right to display Gandhiji's image in their offices."
He further emphasized, "The BJP has no claim to Gandhiji after they removed his name from the rural employment initiative, MGNREGA. It is disrespectful to eliminate Gandhiji's name, especially as we mark the centenary of his assuming the role of Congress President," he remarked.
"We will continue to protest until the Central Government revokes the VB-G RAM G legislation. We plan to hold demonstrations in every gram panchayat to compel the Centre to repeal this legislation, just as they did with the Farm law bills," the Deputy Chief Minister affirmed.
"This new legislation threatens a scheme that has supported village development for two decades. Our fishing community in coastal Karnataka will also suffer due to this. Why are State BJP leaders silent on the withdrawal of the rural employment scheme?" he questioned.
"MGNREGA has enabled rural residents to improve their lands and construct homes. In contrast, the new VB-G RAM G Act restricts this assistance, only permitting the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana," he stated.
"MGNREGA provided opportunities for constructing shelters for livestock, as well as for pig and sheep farming. You can witness the achievements we've made through MGNREGA in Kanakapura taluk, where we have utilized the highest grants available under this program," the Deputy Chief Minister added.
"The BJP has taken this away from us. Haveri district has also seen remarkable progress with this initiative, but the Centre has stripped our rural populace of it," he continued.
"Under MGNREGA, farmers could apply for funds for their agricultural projects. Now, the BJP government has shifted this authority to contractors. This scheme will not succeed in any state. Why have the Union Ministers from Karnataka not embraced this scheme?" he asked.
Point of View
This statement from Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding rural employment schemes and the importance of Gandhi's legacy in Indian politics. The BJP's actions will undoubtedly be scrutinized, and the response from the electorate could shape future political landscapes.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did D.K. Shivakumar say about the BJP's actions?
D.K. Shivakumar criticized the BJP for losing its moral right to discuss Mahatma Gandhi after they removed his name from the MGNREGA scheme.
What is MGNREGA?
MGNREGA stands for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which provides legal guarantee for at least 100 days of unskilled wage employment in a financial year to every rural household.
What is the VB-G RAM G legislation?
The VB-G RAM G legislation is a new law that Shivakumar claims threatens rural employment and development initiatives, replacing MGNREGA with more restrictive measures.
Why is the protest significant?
The protests aim to compel the central government to withdraw the VB-G RAM G legislation, which many believe undermines rural development efforts.
How has MGNREGA affected rural communities?
MGNREGA has played a crucial role in empowering rural communities by providing employment, improving infrastructure, and supporting agricultural activities.
