Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Saturday strongly criticized the government’s decision to scrap the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), describing it as an “attack” on the rights of the rural poor.
In a video message, Gandhi recalled the landmark passage of MGNREGA under the Congress-led UPA government in 2005, highlighting its role as a vital lifeline for millions of rural families.
“MGNREGA was passed unanimously to provide guaranteed employment and empower rural communities. The Modi government has bulldozed this historic scheme, removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name and altering its framework without any consultation,” Gandhi said. She accused the government of disregarding the interests of farmers, laborers, and marginalized groups.
The Congress leader vowed to oppose the government’s move, stating, “We will fight this black law and stand with the people whose livelihoods are at stake.”
MGNREGA has long served as a crucial safety net in rural India, ensuring employment opportunities and strengthening gram panchayats. Gandhi’s remarks come amid widespread protests following the announcement to replace MGNREGA with the Viksit Bharat G RAM G Bill, a move that has sparked intense debate about its impact on rural employment and social welfare.