In a high-stakes political showdown, Congress has unleashed sharp criticism on the Modi government’s replacement of MGNREGA with a new rural employment scheme, branding it a political ploy to undermine workers’ rights. The ‘Save MGNREGA’ rally at Jawahar Bhawan drew throngs of activists from diverse states, setting the stage for a nationwide mobilization.
Sandeep Dikshit, a prominent Congress voice, lambasted the BJP for altering the law purely for partisan advantage. Laborers, he said, are reeling from the disruptions, and the party is committed to bolstering their cause through escalated campaigns. Attendees transported soil from active MGNREGA sites—proof of their authentic struggles—united in planting it as a sapling at the venue, representing collective grit.
Imran Pratapgarhi evoked the UPA’s legacy, crediting leaders like Manmohan Singh and the Gandhis for guaranteeing 100 days of work. The new proposal, he argued, seeks to erode this entitlement, robbing crores of their due. Congress plans extensive outreach, including Rahul Gandhi’s engagements with thinkers and on-ground worker interactions.
Vikrant Bhuria highlighted the broad participation, including NGOs, as a launchpad for a people-powered struggle. Alka Lamba accused the government of authoritarianism, ignoring state inputs and directly assaulting rural job security. Beyond renaming, it’s an attack on the employment guarantee itself. Party brass, from Kharge to Rahul, vows unyielding defense of the scheme’s foundations.
This gathering signals escalating tensions over rural livelihoods, with Congress positioning itself as the guardian of the poor against perceived dilutions. The movement’s momentum could reshape electoral narratives in key rural belts.