Bhopal, Dec 30 (NationPress) Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated on Tuesday that if any State Assembly were to adopt a resolution against the Viksit Bharat -- Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, it would constitute an infringement on the federal structure established by the Constitution.

Chouhan's comments were made in response to the Punjab Assembly convening a special session to evaluate the implications of amendments to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

“The VB G RAM G Act was enacted following extensive discussions in both Houses of Parliament, where I addressed all queries from the Opposition. I have been informed that the Punjab Assembly intends to pass a resolution against this Act today, which I believe is entirely inappropriate,” the Union Minister remarked.

During a press conference held at his residence in Bhopal, Chouhan emphasized that once a law is legislated by Parliament, opposing it via a resolution from a State Assembly is unconstitutional.

“State Assemblies are a crucial component of India’s federal structure and must adhere to it. Punjab should not set a dangerous precedent by opposing a law passed by Parliament, as this could lead to significant issues,” he cautioned.

Chouhan also accused the Opposition of misleading the public regarding the supposed renaming of MGNREGA. He asserted that the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, was overseas during the parliamentary discussions on the Bill and is now disseminating false information.

In defense of the VB G RAM G Act, the minister noted that the restructured rural employment initiative emphasizes technology, transparency, and prompt wage disbursements, ensuring funds are directly transferred to workers’ bank accounts.

He affirmed that the authorities of Gram Sabhas and Panchayats are being reinforced, allowing Gram Sabhas to identify and prioritize projects. Local implementation and oversight will persist, supported by mandatory social audits to guarantee transparency and greater participation from women and self-help groups.

Chouhan highlighted that special attention would be directed towards the most disadvantaged Panchayats, which will be allocated increased funding, enhanced support, and more employment prospects.

“The employment guarantee under this scheme has not been diminished but rather strengthened, with the guaranteed workdays increasing from 100 to 125,” he added, noting that provisions for unemployment allowances and compensation for delayed wage payments have been maintained.

He also assured that government employees under the VB G RAM G Act would receive their salaries punctually.