Is Democracy Now Just Mob Rule? Shivraj Singh Chouhan Critiques INDIA Bloc Over Viksit Bharat–G RAM G Bill Chaos
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Viksit Bharat–G RAM G Bill, 2025 aims to enhance rural employment.
- Union Minister Chouhan condemned the Opposition's disruption as mob rule.
- The proposed Bill includes an increase in guaranteed employment days.
- Over 25 crore people have benefited from previous welfare initiatives.
- The government emphasizes transparency and technological integration in welfare schemes.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) Shortly after the Lok Sabha’s proceedings were interrupted on Thursday due to a commotion created by Opposition members, including Congress MPs and those from the INDIA Bloc, during the discussion surrounding the proposed Viksit Bharat–G RAM G Bill, 2025, which aims to replace the current MGNREGA framework, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan vocally criticized the Opposition's actions. He accused them of diminishing democracy to “mob rule” and “hooliganism”.
In a press conference held at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, the Union Minister claimed that Opposition MPs were undermining the standards of parliamentary decorum as well as democratic principles.
He expressed dismay over the instances of bill copies being torn within the House, labeling it an affront to the values espoused by Mahatma Gandhi. “Is this how discussion, the lifeblood of democracy, is conducted?” he questioned.
Chouhan stated that the government had approached discussions on the bill with due seriousness and respect, attentively considering all viewpoints. Nonetheless, the disruptive actions of the Opposition MPs, including tearing and tossing papers, thwarted a constructive debate. “I strongly condemn this disgraceful act,” he asserted.
In defense of the proposed legislation, Chouhan highlighted that the Bill illustrates the BJP-led government’s dedication to Garib Kalyan and comprehensive development under the stewardship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out that over 25 crore individuals have ascended from poverty due to sustained welfare initiatives and governance focused on development.
A notable aspect of the proposed framework is the increase in guaranteed employment days from 100 to 125, aimed at bolstering rural livelihoods. To facilitate this expansion, the government has suggested an allocation of Rs 1,51,282 crore, with the Centre contributing more than Rs 95,000 crore.
Chouhan also presented a detailed strategy for “developed villages,” encompassing infrastructure development, educational institutions, health centers, water conservation initiatives, anganwadi buildings, roads, and economic activities.
He challenged the Opposition’s opposition to technological integration and transparency in welfare programs, questioning whether public funds should be “sacrificed to corruption.”