Has the Centre Undermined the Legal Rights of the Poor?
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Synopsis
On December 20, the Punjab Congress criticized the Centre for repealing the MGNREGA, arguing it jeopardizes the legal rights of the most vulnerable sections of society. This contentious move raises significant concerns regarding the government's commitment to social welfare and support for marginalized communities.
Key Takeaways
- MGNREGA has been crucial for rural employment.
- The Centre's repeal affects legal rights of the impoverished.
- Concerns over the new law replacing MGNREGA persist.
- Impact on marginalized communities, particularly women and Dalits.
- Calls for constructive action from state leaders.
Chandigarh, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Punjab Congress on Saturday condemned the Central government for abolishing the rights-based Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), asserting that it has effectively stripped the legal rights and guarantees of the impoverished and marginalized individuals across the nation.
State Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, accompanied by AICC Department of Social Media and Digital Platforms Chairperson Supriya Shrinate, expressed that this move represents a systematic assault on the underprivileged, including Dalits, tribal communities, backward classes, and women.
Warring highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's longstanding disdain for MGNREGA, often criticizing it. He specifically noted the increase in state allocation from 10% to 40% under the new law VB-G RAM G, which has taken the place of MGNREGA. He pointed out the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab's inability to implement MGNREGA, even when only a 10% matching grant was necessary.
He raised the question, “How can it manage to provide a 40% matching grant?”
Referencing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's announcement of a special Assembly session on the matter, Warring expressed hope that the Chief Minister would propose some positive and constructive solutions to address the Central government's actions.
Supriya Shrinate characterized this situation as a direct attack by Prime Minister Modi on the marginalized segments of society, who have faced exploitation for generations, including Dalits, tribals, backward classes, and women, who benefitted the most from MGNREGA.
She emphasized that this was a demand-based right allowing individuals to request 100 days of work as an entitlement.
She also noted that MGNREGA included a provision for financial compensation if the government failed to provide work. The senior Congress leader stated that MGNREGA has transformed the rural economy, aiding in poverty alleviation by reducing rural poverty by 26% and enhancing rural employment.
Point of View
The ongoing discourse surrounding the MGNREGA highlights critical issues of social justice and economic rights. The Congress's response reflects a broader concern over the implications of governmental policies on vulnerable populations. It is essential to analyze these developments with an objective lens, understanding the potential long-term impacts on rural employment and poverty alleviation.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MGNREGA?
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a social security measure aimed at enhancing livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of unskilled wage employment in a financial year to every rural household.
Why is the repeal of MGNREGA significant?
The repeal of MGNREGA is significant as it directly affects the legal rights of the poor and marginalized, potentially diminishing their access to guaranteed employment and financial compensation.
Who benefits from MGNREGA?
MGNREGA primarily benefits rural households, particularly marginalized groups such as Dalits, tribal communities, and women, by providing guaranteed employment and income.
What did Punjab Congress say about the Centre's actions?
The Punjab Congress criticized the Centre for scrapping MGNREGA, calling it a systematic attack on the poor and marginalized, and highlighting the adverse effects on livelihood security.
What are the implications of the new law replacing MGNREGA?
The new law, VB-G RAM G, raises concerns regarding its implementation and effectiveness, especially given that the Punjab government previously struggled to manage even a 10% matching grant under MGNREGA.
