Is the 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' Really Reaching 2.5 Lakh Gram Panchayats?
Synopsis
In a bold move, the Congress party's 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' is aiming to engage 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats, challenging the Union government's actions against vital rural job programs. With significant participation already recorded, the initiative seeks to rally support for the restoration of essential employment rights. Discover the implications of this movement.
Key Takeaways
MGNREGA Bachao Sangram aims to mobilize support across 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats .
The initiative is a response to perceived threats against the MGNREGA program.
Over 30,177 participants have already joined the campaign.
The Congress party seeks to restore constitutional rights related to work and wages.
Criticism is directed towards the rapid legislative changes by the Union government.
New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) The Congress party announced on Tuesday that its 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' initiative is expanding its reach to 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats, accusing the Union government of aggressively undermining the rural employment schemes established during the UPA regime.
Jairam Ramesh, the Congress General Secretary for Communications and a Rajya Sabha MP, shared on the social media platform X, stating, "The Union government has bulldozed the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme, which serves as a lifeline for millions in India."
Ramesh called on citizens to support Congress in its protest against the proposed replacement of MGNREGA with the Viksit Bharat — Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB — G RAM G) Act, emphasizing that this nationwide movement is aimed at restoring constitutional rights to work, wages, and accountability. He urged, "Join this movement too."
Additionally, Ramesh's account on X featured a live counter tracking the number of participants joining the struggle.
As of Tuesday afternoon, over 30,177 individuals had joined the campaign by giving a missed call.
The 'Sangram' initiative was launched following a decision by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, to mobilize public support and pressure the Union government to reverse its decision, reminiscent of the protests against the farm laws that were ultimately retracted.
Rahul Gandhi criticized the swift passage of the VB-G RAM G Act through Parliament, claiming it lacked sufficient scrutiny and debate.
He referred to MGNREGA as the most effective poverty alleviation initiative and affirmed that he and the Congress will not allow the Modi-led Union government to dismantle the rural poor’s final safety net.
"We will ally with workers, panchayats, and states to thwart this initiative and mobilize a nationwide front to ensure the repeal of this law," he declared in a powerful social media statement.
Rahul Gandhi expressed his discontent with the rapid passage of the VB-G RAM G Bill in both Houses of Parliament, asserting that the Modi government obliterated two decades of MGNREGA in a single day and questioned the anti-state and anti-village nature of the new scheme set to replace the UPA-era MGNREGA.
Point of View
The ongoing struggle led by the Congress party highlights significant concerns surrounding rural employment schemes. The urgency for restoring constitutional rights related to work and accountability resonates deeply within the community. It is essential that the government engages in constructive dialogue to address these pressing issues, ensuring that the voices of millions are heard.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram'?
The 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' is an initiative by the Congress party aimed at protecting and promoting the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which provides job security to rural workers.
How many Gram Panchayats are involved?
The initiative aims to reach approximately 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across India.
What are the main criticisms of the Union government?
The Congress party accuses the Union government of undermining rural employment schemes and rushing the passage of new legislation that could replace MGNREGA.
How can people get involved?
Individuals can join the movement by participating in protests or by engaging with the campaign through social media and other outreach efforts.
Why is MGNREGA considered important?
MGNREGA is regarded as a vital poverty alleviation program that provides essential employment opportunities to rural populations in India.
