Are We Truly Upholding Gandhi Ji's Ideals? Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Remarks in Lok Sabha Amidst Opposition Disruption
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Synopsis
What happened in the Lok Sabha when Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed the contentious VB-G RAM-G Bill? Amid uproar from the Opposition, he asserted the government's commitment to Gandhi's ideals and the necessity of the proposed legislation for rural employment. Explore the clash that unfolded and the implications for India's rural workforce.
Key Takeaways
- VB-G RAM-G Bill proposes significant changes to rural employment.
- Opposition voices concerns about the impact on MGNREGA.
- Legislation aims to empower villages as the soul of India.
- Government emphasizes alignment with Gandhi's ideals.
- Urgency to pass the Bill before the Winter Session ends.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Lok Sabha was thrown into disarray on Thursday when Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan took the floor to present the government's response regarding the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 (VB-G RAM-G Bill). This proposed legislation aims to substitute the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a new system offering 125 days of wage employment each year.
Members of the Congress party vocally insisted that the Bill be submitted to a Standing Committee or Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for thorough examination, which intensified the atmosphere in the House.
K.C. Venugopal called upon Speaker Om Birla to send the VB-G RAM-G Bill to a Standing Committee or JPC, seeking a more comprehensive review.
Speaker Om Birla dismissed these requests, highlighting that the discussion had already continued until 1:30 a.m. the previous night, involving around 98 MPs in the extensive debate.
As Chouhan commenced his reply, drawing upon the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, he stressed, "We live for the ideals of Gandhi ji. This Bill is inspired by Bapu ji's vision and aligns with our Panch Prana principles."
He further emphasized that the legislation focuses on social and economic empowerment, stating, "Samajik aur arthik ko sthan diya hai, hum Gandhi ji ke adarshon par chalne wale hain. Gaon Bharat ki atma hai; if villages perish, India perishes."
Chouhan accused the Congress party of duplicity, reminding them that they had many opportunities to express their opinions late into the night but were now reluctant to listen to the government's perspective.
"It is my right to ensure they hear the government reply," he declared amid ongoing interruptions.
The Opposition's objections stemmed from worries that the new Bill diminishes the demand-driven guarantees of MGNREGA, shifts financial responsibilities to states, and omits Mahatma Gandhi's name from the prominent rural employment scheme—a change many view as an "insult" to the Father of the Nation.
Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, previously demonstrated with portraits of Gandhi.
Proponents of the Bill argue that it modernizes rural livelihoods, aligns with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, and improves integration with initiatives focused on water security and infrastructure.
With the Winter Session concluding on December 19, the government is keen to pass the Bill to enhance employment guarantees for citizens.
Point of View
The discussion surrounding the VB-G RAM-G Bill is crucial as it addresses rural employment in India. While the government's intent to modernize the framework is evident, concerns regarding the removal of MGNREGA and the implications for financial responsibilities are valid. It is essential to strike a balance between progress and the preservation of foundational principles.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VB-G RAM-G Bill?
The VB-G RAM-G Bill aims to replace the MGNREGA with a new framework that guarantees 125 days of wage employment annually.
Why did the Opposition object to the Bill?
The Opposition raised concerns that the Bill undermines MGNREGA's guarantees and shifts financial burdens to states.
What are the implications of this Bill for rural employment?
Supporters argue the Bill modernizes rural livelihoods, while critics fear it could weaken job security for rural workers.
