What Did the Calcutta HC Direct the Centre to Do Regarding MGNREGA Funds for West Bengal?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has instructed the Centre to disclose its plans for releasing overdue MGNREGA funds to West Bengal. This decision comes amidst allegations of fund withholding and political disputes between state and central governments, marking a pivotal moment for the state's employment initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court directs Centre to file affidavit.
- Affidavit should outline plans for MGNREGA fund release.
- Union Government accused of withholding funds for West Bengal.
- Political tensions between Trinamool Congress and BJP continue.
- Previous court rulings emphasized the need for transparency.
Kolkata, Nov 7 (NationPress) A Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court has mandated the Centre to submit an affidavit that outlines the strategy for releasing the long-awaited funds to the West Bengal government for the 100-day employment initiative under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
The acting Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Smita Das De instructed the Union government to prepare the affidavit within four weeks.
According to the Bench's directives, the petitioners, who allege that the Union government is intentionally withholding MGNREGA funds from West Bengal, will be required to present their arguments regarding the Centre's affidavit two weeks post-filing. Following this, the next court session will take place.
To recall, the Union Government halted payments under the MGNREGA program three years ago, which sparked a fierce political clash between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP.
The Union government contends that the payment freeze was due to significant corruption in the scheme's execution. Earlier in June, the Calcutta High Court instructed the Union government to resume payments for the outstanding MGNREGA funds for West Bengal, following a petition by the Paschim Banga Khet Mojur Samiti, representing agricultural workers in the state.
The Calcutta High Court noted that while the Union Government could impose conditions on MGNREGA funds disbursement, it could not completely cease payments based on these conditions.
In July, the Union Government contested the Calcutta High Court ruling in the Supreme Court. Last month, the Supreme Court's Division Bench, consisting of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta, upheld the Calcutta High Court's decision and refused to intervene.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight that the Calcutta High Court's ruling emphasizes accountability and transparency in the disbursement of funds intended for employment schemes. The ongoing political tug-of-war should not overshadow the pressing needs of the workers who depend on MGNREGA. We advocate for a solution that prioritizes the welfare of the citizens.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Calcutta High Court order?
The Calcutta High Court ordered the Centre to file an affidavit explaining how it plans to release pending MGNREGA funds for West Bengal.
Why were MGNREGA funds halted?
The Union Government halted MGNREGA payments, citing concerns over significant corruption in the scheme's implementation.
What is MGNREGA?
MGNREGA stands for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which provides a legal guarantee for at least 100 days of unskilled wage employment in a financial year to every rural household.
How long does the Centre have to file the affidavit?
The Centre has been given four weeks to file the required affidavit.
What is the next step after the affidavit is filed?
After the affidavit is filed, the petitioners will have two weeks to respond before the next hearing.
