Will the Opposition's Demand for VB-G Ram G Bill Refer to Standing Committee Spark More Chaos in LS?
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Synopsis
The Lok Sabha witnessed intense turmoil as the Opposition demanded the VB-G RAM-G Bill's referral to a Standing Committee or JPC. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan defended the Bill amid protests, emphasizing the government's commitment to rural employment and development. The clash highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding this significant legislative proposal.
Key Takeaways
- Lok Sabha chaos reflects political tensions surrounding rural legislation.
- VB-G RAM-G Bill aims to guarantee 125 days of employment.
- Opposition demands a thorough review by a Standing Committee.
- Government emphasizes enhanced rural development and job opportunities.
- Critics raise concerns about weakened guarantees and cost shifts.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Lok Sabha erupted into chaos on Thursday as Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan sought to present the government’s response regarding the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 (VB-G RAM-G Bill), amidst a backdrop of incessant slogans and protests from opposition members.
Congress MP K.C. Venugopal urgently requested Speaker Om Birla to send the Bill—which aims to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a framework ensuring 125 days of wage employment each year—to a Standing Committee or Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for comprehensive review.
The Speaker dismissed the request, noting that the Bill had already undergone more than eight hours of debate, extending into the previous night.
Amid the uproar, Minister Chouhan continued his address, underlining the improved provisions that the new legislation entails.
“With a substantial allocation and increased job opportunities, we are establishing provisions for fully developed (sampoorna viksit) villages—this is the objective of the Modi government,” he proclaimed.
He asserted that the Bill's title itself signifies its commitment to providing employment and enhancing livelihoods, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision.
Minister Chouhan depicted the initiative as a step towards a prosperous India, with plans for ideal villages equipped with all essential amenities, employment opportunities, and better livelihoods, in line with the Viksit Bharat @2047 goal.
“PM Modi has envisioned an array of amenities for self-reliant villages,” he declared, undeterred by the interruptions.
He criticized the Congress party for reducing the budget from Rs 40,000 crore to Rs 35,000 crore, stating, “We will allocate more than Rs 95,000 crore under the new scheme.”
The Bill has faced severe backlash from the Opposition, accused of diluting the demand-driven guarantees of MGNREGA, shifting financial burdens to states, and erasing Mahatma Gandhi's name—a move condemned as disrespectful to the Father of the Nation. Supporters, however, argue that it modernizes rural empowerment, increases employment days from 100 to 125, and promotes convergence for infrastructure and comprehensive coverage.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that while the opposition's concerns regarding the VB-G RAM-G Bill merit consideration, the government's perspective on enhancing rural livelihoods and developing infrastructure cannot be overlooked. The dialogue surrounding this Bill reflects broader political dynamics, which must be approached with an understanding of the implications for citizens across the nation.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VB-G RAM-G Bill?
The VB-G RAM-G Bill aims to replace MGNREGA with a new framework guaranteeing 125 days of wage employment annually.
Why did the Opposition demand a referral to a Standing Committee?
The Opposition seeks a thorough examination of the Bill to address concerns about its potential implications on rural employment guarantees.
What are the main criticisms of the Bill?
Critics argue that the Bill weakens MGNREGA's guarantees, shifts costs to states, and removes Mahatma Gandhi's name from the legislation.
What is the government's stance on the Bill?
The government asserts that the Bill modernizes rural employment, increases job days, and aims for comprehensive infrastructure development.
How does this Bill align with PM Modi's vision?
The Bill reflects PM Modi's goal of creating self-reliant villages with improved amenities and better job opportunities.
