Is Mahatma Gandhi’s Name Removal from MGNREGA an Insult to the Father of the Nation?
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Synopsis
In a strong backlash against the BJP-led NDA government, the Congress party in Manipur denounces the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the rural employment act, deeming it an insult to the Father of the Nation. This controversial decision has sparked debates on the implications for rural employment and welfare in India.
Key Takeaways
- Mahatma Gandhi's name removal deemed an insult.
- Congress party criticizes the NDA government.
- Concerns over the clarity of the new legislation.
- Potential impact on rural employment rights.
- Calls for greater debate in Parliament.
Imphal, Dec 22 (NationPress) The Congress party in Manipur has vehemently condemned the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for eliminating Mahatma Gandhi's name from the rural employment legislation.
Following the parliamentary endorsement of the Viksit Bharat -- Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu granted her approval to the law on Sunday.
Okram Ibobi Singh, a former Chief Minister of Manipur and a distinguished Congress figure, criticized the NDA government for this decision regarding the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005.
Singh, who served three terms as Chief Minister from 2002 to 2017, stated in a press briefing that the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from this crucial rural employment scheme is a profound insult to the Father of the Nation.
He challenged the reasoning behind replacing Mahatma Gandhi's name with an alternative title, asserting that there is no justification for this removal from a welfare initiative that embodies his principles.
Singh emphasized that the Congress party vehemently opposes this action. While he acknowledged that improvements in welfare measures, such as an increase in the guaranteed number of employment days, might be acceptable, he expressed concerns over various unclear aspects of the new legislation.
He further critiqued the passage of the bill without sufficient discussion, arguing that this approach undermines the essence of parliamentary democracy. State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh highlighted that not only does this act insult the Father of the Nation in Parliament, but it also lacks clarity on several vital provisions.
He noted that while MGNREGA is a rights-based law that allows villagers to seek legal redress, such provisions are notably absent from the new law.
The enactment of the VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, essentially serves as a “death certificate” for MGNREGA, a historic lifeline for rural communities in India.
“The Congress party is profoundly disappointed and staunchly opposes this move, as it undermines the very foundation of a significant rights-based legislation that guarantees employment, dignity, and livelihood security for millions of rural households. The removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the scheme is a direct affront to the legacy of the Father of the Nation, whose philosophy of Sarvodaya and social justice inspired this momentous law,” Meghachandra Singh asserted.
He also cautioned that the new Act dilutes the rights-based, demand-driven guarantee of employment, leaving rural workers vulnerable to budgetary constraints.
“We are seriously concerned about the altered funding model. Transferring a greater financial burden to states will severely compromise poorer and resource-limited states, including Manipur, thus jeopardizing rural livelihood security.
Moreover, the new framework weakens the spirit of federalism by centralizing authority and diminishing the autonomy of states and local self-governing bodies,” the state Congress leader concluded.
The press conference was attended by Congress Working Committee member Gaikhangam Gangmei along with other party leaders and legislators.
Point of View
The removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from a significant welfare scheme raises critical questions about the government's commitment to honoring historical legacies. The opposition's strong reaction reflects the sensitivities surrounding policies that impact millions of rural citizens. It is vital for the government to clarify its intentions and ensure that the rights of the marginalized are preserved.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mahatma Gandhi's name removed from MGNREGA?
The BJP-led NDA government passed the VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, which resulted in the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the rural employment act.
What are the implications of this removal?
Critics argue that this action is an insult to the Father of the Nation and undermines the welfare and rights of rural workers.
What does the Congress party say about this decision?
The Congress party has condemned the move, claiming it dilutes essential rights and undermines the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.
How does this change affect rural employment?
The new legislation is criticized for lacking clarity and potentially weakening the guarantees of employment for rural households.
What is the response from state leaders?
State leaders have expressed strong opposition, emphasizing the need for clarity and adequate debate on such significant changes.
